The air cargo industry has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth and business success in India, particularly as the country positions itself as a global hub for manufacturing and trade. A recent discussion featuring prominent industry leaders explored how companies—especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs)—can leverage air cargo to gain a competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market.

A pillar of economic growth

India’s air cargo industry has seen a transformative shift over the past decade, supported by infrastructure upgrades, policy reforms, and growing demand for efficient logistics solutions.

Speaking on the industry’s potential, Yashpal Sharma, Managing Director of Skyways Group, remarked: “Air cargo is no longer just a mode of transportation—it is a strategic enabler for businesses. With its speed, reliability, and ability to connect even remote markets, it offers Indian companies a pathway to expand both domestically and globally.”

Optimising operations

One of the key takeaways from the session was the importance of optimising cargo operations to drive efficiency and reduce costs.

Manoj Singh, Chief Cargo Officer at Adani Airport Holdings, highlighted how advanced infrastructure at India’s leading airports is facilitating this transformation: “Airports are no longer just transit points; they are evolving into integrated logistics hubs. With state-of-the-art facilities for cold chain, express cargo, and high-value goods, we are enabling businesses to move their products faster and more reliably.”

Leveraging Innovation to Stay Competitive

Innovation emerged as a recurring theme during the discussion, with speakers highlighting the need for businesses to adopt modern logistics solutions to remain competitive.

Yasir Verimli, Vice President of Cargo Operation (Hub) at Turkish Airlines, shared insights into how international carriers are supporting Indian businesses: “We are seeing an increasing demand for specialised cargo services, such as temperature-controlled shipments for pharmaceuticals and express solutions for e-commerce. By offering tailored solutions, airlines like ours are helping businesses adapt to the complexities of modern trade.”

Growth engine

SMEs are often referred to as the backbone of the Indian economy, accounting for a significant portion of exports and employment. However, many SMEs struggle with logistical inefficiencies that limit their ability to scale.

Venkat S, Country Head Airfreight at Hermes Travel and Cargo, stressed the role of air cargo in overcoming these challenges: “For SMEs, the ability to deliver goods quickly and reliably can be a game-changer. Air cargo not only shortens delivery times but also opens doors to new markets, enabling SMEs to compete on a global stage.”

Sector-specific applications

Certain sectors, such as pharmaceuticals and e-commerce, have been particularly reliant on air cargo to meet their operational demands.

Tejas Mehta, Head of Logistics and Marketing Support Services at Reliance Life Sciences, spoke about the critical role of air cargo in the pharmaceutical industry: “Pharma logistics requires precision, especially when dealing with temperature-sensitive products. Air cargo ensures that medicines and vaccines reach their destinations quickly and under controlled conditions, safeguarding patient safety.”

Future trends

As India’s air cargo industry continues to evolve, the focus is shifting towards creating an ecosystem that supports long-term growth and resilience.

Devang Vyas, General Manager and Global Head of Logistics at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, called for greater collaboration among stakeholders: “Whether it’s airports, airlines, or freight forwarders, every player in the ecosystem has a role to play in driving innovation and efficiency. By working together, we can create a supply chain that is agile, scalable, and aligned with the needs of Indian businesses” asserted Vyas.

By adopting innovative logistics models, optimising operations, and leveraging the expertise of industry leaders, businesses—particularly SMEs—can harness the full potential of air cargo to achieve sustained growth and success.

As Sharma aptly concluded, “Air cargo is not just about transportation; it’s about transformation. It is the bridge that connects businesses to opportunities and fuels economic progress.”

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