Cochin Airport boosts logistics services by introducing a comprehensive pet export facility.
Cochin International Airport has significantly enhanced its logistics capabilities by launching a pet export service, a boon for pet owners relocating abroad. On Thursday, Luka, a Lhasa Apso puppy, became the first pet to be exported from Kochi to Dubai via Doha, managed by Qatar Airways. This development marks Cochin Airport as the only airport in Kerala authorised for international pet export.
To facilitate this new service, the airport has set up a 24-hour air-conditioned pet station, a dedicated cargo section, on-call veterinary services, a customs clearance center, and a facilitation center for pet owners. Previously limited to domestic pet transport, Cochin Airport can now handle international pet shipments, ensuring pets travel in specially designed cages as cargo.
The airport is also working on securing permission for direct pet imports, with an ‘Animal Quarantine’ center in development. This initiative complements Cochin Airport’s existing logistics services, which include the export and import of fruits and plants, supported by a ‘Plant Quarantine’ center near the cargo section. Airlines and cargo handling agencies are key contacts for utilising these services.
S. Suhas, Managing Director of Cochin International Airport (CIAL), highlighted the airport’s commitment to elevating its logistics infrastructure to match leading Indian airports. “Our goal is to offer a complete package to our passengers, with automated touch points and enhanced services. The animal import facility is in progress, and advanced security systems like full-body scanners will be introduced soon,” Suhas stated.
Additionally, CIAL has received authorization from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to import drugs and cosmetics in bulk. This is a significant shift from previous limitations that required special permissions for smaller quantities, further enhancing the airport’s logistics capabilities.
