Air India makes history by employing Pune Airport’s transshipment facility for the first time, facilitating the movement of international cargo to Kuwait via Mumbai.
Air India marked a significant milestone as it availed Pune Airport’s transshipment facility to transport an international consignment to Kuwait via Mumbai. The consignment, comprising 650kg of live plants, was initially transported from Pune to Mumbai before being forwarded to Kuwait on another Air India flight.
Tushar Sutar, Joint Secretary of Exim Integrated Club, highlighted the procedural aspects, mentioning that airlines require permission from both the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and customs to utilise the transshipment facility. The introduction of this service allows airlines to streamline cargo movement from various cities to major airports with extensive international connections, potentially catalysing trade opportunities.
Airport authorities expressed optimism, anticipating increased participation from other airlines and collaboration with prominent logistics firms to further enhance cargo export processes. Despite previous challenges related to cargo infrastructure, recent developments, including the inauguration of an integrated cargo terminal and resumption of international cargo exports, signify a positive trajectory for Pune Airport’s cargo operations.
With Air India pioneering transshipment utilisation and ongoing efforts to streamline operations, Pune’s cargo exports are poised for significant growth in the foreseeable future.
