Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is preparing for a significant upgrade as its new cargo terminal prepares for inauguration by September this year. The dedicated international cargo terminal will increase the airport’s capacity by at least a hundred tonnes. Currently, the airport handles 150 tonnes of international cargo, and the new terminal will boost its capacity to 250 tonnes. In addition, the terminal will have tate-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology for packaging, warehousing, cargo handling and storage.
The new development will transform Cochin into a major cargo hub in South India. It is being constructed as part of CIAL’s business diversification plans to successfully manage the burgeoning cargo volume expected in the future and significantly boost its international cargo revenue.
The building’s structural works have been completed. The facility will boast world-class cargo handling, packaging, warehousing, storage, and automated cargo handling machinery. Moreover, it will be equipped with advanced scanners to enhance security, prevent smuggling, and detect anomalies. Spread across 14,195.48 square metres, the new facility will have four floors and will be the biggest cargo terminal in Kerela. It will be large enough to serve the burgeoning international cargo movement in Kochi for the upcoming 15 years.
The civil aviation ministry decided in 2020 to restrict non-scheduled freighter operations run by foreign carriers to and from India to just six airports. Since CIAL is not on the list, it could pose a challenge for the upcoming terminal. The airport currently uses passenger aircraft belly space to carry as much limited cargo as allowed. CIAL has submitted a memorandum requesting the civil aviation ministry to include the Cochin airport in the list.
