Cargo

Delhi, 12th March 2025: Cathay Cargo has appointed Zeal Global Corp as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in India, marking a significant step in expanding its operations and market presence across the country. This strategic partnership is set to enhance Cathay Cargo’s reach into India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, strengthening its position as a leading air cargo carrier in one of the world’s fastest-growing logistics markets. Zeal Global Corp, a premier provider of air cargo logistics solutions, brings extensive expertise as a General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA), and a trusted sales partner for multiple global airlines. With a deep understanding of the Indian air freight industry, Zeal Global Corp specialises in cargo sales, marketing, operational support, and administrative services, leveraging both offline and digital channels to maximise reach and efficiency. This collaboration will focus on key regional markets across India, expanding Cathay Cargo’s presence in Ahmedabad (AMD), Jaipur (JAI), Ludhiana (LUH), Allahabad (AIP), Amritsar (ATQ), Lucknow (LKO), Kanpur (KNU), Cochin (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Coimbatore (CJB), Madurai (IXM), and Varanasi (VNS). By tapping into these key manufacturing and emerging logistics hubs, Cathay Cargo aims to provide enhanced market access and seamless cargo solutions to businesses across India. Cathay Cargo’s Regional Head of Cargo for South Asia, Middle East, and Africa, Rajesh Menon, said “We are pleased to appoint Zeal Global Corp as our new General Sales Agent for our cargo operations in India. Their extensive market expertise and strong network across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will play a crucial role in expanding our cargo services and enhancing logistics accessibility for businesses in these cities.” Menon added, “With Zeal Global Cargo’s expertise and operational efficiency, we will provide local manufacturers, exporters, SMEs, and freight forwarders with greater access to global markets through our home hub, Hong Kong. This collaboration will help drive economic growth, facilitate trade, and create a more integrated and dynamic cargo ecosystem for our Indian partners.” Managing Director and Co-Founder of Zeal Global Corp, Vishal Sharma, said, “Zeal Global Corp is honoured to partner with Cathay Cargo, a renowned global brand in the cargo industry, as we work together to enhance tonnage and revenue by deepening our presence in regional markets.” Cargo’s extensive global network, dedicated freighter fleet of Boeing 747-8F and 747-400ERFs (Extended Range Freighter) aircraft, and hub connectivity via Hong Kong ensure robust solutions tailored to meet the growing demands of Indian businesses. Cathay Cargo also uses cargo space on the Cathay Group’s passenger aircraft.  

Doha, 28th Feb 2025: Mechanical failures, equipment malfunctions or technical issues discovered during scheduled maintenance, can all result in an aircraft having to remain grounded (Aircraft on Ground – AOG) until the necessary parts are sourced and repairs have been completed. AOG requirements are increasing and changing, given that international travel and cargo demand is on the rise, Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) service providers and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are becoming more globalised, and national aerospace industries are growing at a rapid pace. To meet these market requirements, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, Qatar Airways Cargo, has now launched a leading edge new product, designed based on customer feedback, offering a tailored time-critical logistics solution to manufacturers, freight forwarders and partners working with commercial airlines, as well as those serving the defence and space technology sectors. AEROSPACE is unique in that it not only provides fast transport for traditional AOG commodities (commercial aircraft engines and spares), but also for all kinds of other critical aerospace parts and components such as avionics, electric propulsion equipment, airframe interiors, landing gears, and much more. Qatar Airways Cargo, renowned for its exceptional care and unparalleled service, goes above and beyond to ensure safe and secure transport. It is the only air cargo carrier to introduce bespoke, shock absorbing 20-ft and 40-ft engine transport dollies at its hub in Doha, capable of carrying up to 20,000kg, ensuring smooth ground operations and protection of high value and critical aerospace equipment and products. The air cargo carrier also excels in floating loading technique for engines which further serves to minimise ground time and expedite aircraft turnaround. “Time is money! That saying is particularly true when it comes to aviation in all its forms: every hour of downtime translates into lost revenue for airlines or sunk costs for aerospace projects,” says Mark Drusch, Qatar Airways Chief Officer Cargo. “Factor in the additional need for safety and constant supervision, and it’s clear that our product – AEROSPACE – is the ideal solution for time-critical aviation parts and components.” AEROSPACE is available across the entire Qatar Airways Cargo network, and comes with the highest loading priority, a dedicated handling team and Control Tower support to ensure the rapid processing and seamless transportation of crucial AOG shipments. Its dedicated special loads team will respond to customer enquiries on the loadability of aerospace equipment within just 45 minutes. Qatar Airways Cargo’s extensive global network, 28 Boeing 777 freighters and 230 belly-hold passenger aircraft offer fast connections, with tail-to-tail transfers in as little as 4 hours. Where required, adhoc charter operations can be arranged. “With our AEROSPACE product, we will be the number one logistics expert for every type of Aerospace product – whether it is for commercial aviation, defence, even space technologies,” Mark Drusch details. “I can assure you already today that, thanks to our inhouse advanced screening techniques and our highly skilled loading teams, your AEROSPACE shipments are in the best of hands and will be delivered quickly and safely, utilising our bespoke transport dollies in Doha, to wherever they are urgently needed.”

Bengaluru, March 1st, 2025: Bangalore Int. Airport Ltd. has partnered with Menzies Aviation to redefine domestic cargo operations with the launch of India’s largest Greenfield Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT) in terms of designed capacity. This 245,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility signifies a major milestone in BLR Airport’s cargo handling capabilities, offering enhanced infrastructure and streamlined processes to meet the growing demands of the domestic market. It will play a key role in connecting industries, strengthening supply chains, and driving innovation toward a more sustainable future for domestic cargo and regional trade, positioning BLR Airport as a leader in cargo handling. Bigger, Better and Advanced Spanning over 7 acres, the DCT features a peak handling capacity of approximately 360,000 metric tons, with a potential to expand to 400,000 metric tons. With around 42 truck docks, more than 400 specially designed cargo bins, conveyors aligned with X-ray machines, approximately 30 ULD build-up and breakdown stations, along with real-time data capture using 40 handheld terminals and self-service kiosks for agents, the facility will ensure seamless cargo movement while reducing turnaround times. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and digital solutions, the terminal introduces upgrades like real-time shipment tracking, data analytics tools, and enhanced communication systems integrated with barcodes and QR codes. This integration enables seamless data exchange with airline systems, improves process timelines, and reduces human touchpoints, ensuring faster and safer cargo handling. The emphasis on digitalisation will streamline operations, enhance visibility across the supply chain, and elevate the overall cargo handling experience for airlines, cargo agents, and end users. Special Cargo at DCT BLR Airport has established a strong reputation as a leading hub for perishables. The airport is already the largest exporter of mangoes, coriander, and various other perishable goods. With the Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT), BLR Airport is set to further enhance its handling capacity. The new DCT will have the capability to manage perishables solidifying BLR Airport’s position as a key player in the air cargo industry. The terminal will also include dedicated storage areas for specialised cargo, such as valuables, vulnerable items, live animals, dangerous goods, and radioactive materials, reinforcing its comprehensive cargo handling capabilities. Sustainability at the Core Compliant with Indian Green Building Council standards, the terminal’s scalable design ensures it can support future growth while reducing its environmental footprint. By enhancing supply chain resilience, creating employment opportunities, and driving new avenues for trade and commerce, this terminal reaffirms BLR Airport’s role as a key driver of greener, smarter cargo operations that contribute to sustainable economic growth. The terminal seamlessly integrates eco-friendly features such as skylighting, advanced ventilation systems, water conservation practices, and energy-efficient infrastructure, all designed to minimise its environmental impact. By prioritising both environmental sustainability and workforce well-being, and incorporating renewable energy solutions, BLR Airport is setting the stage for greener, more efficient cargo operations, while paving the way for a more sustainable future in the industry. Satyaki Raghunath, COO of Bangalore International Airport Limited, added, “This new domestic cargo terminal reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable growth. By integrating eco-friendly practices with cutting-edge technology, we have created a facility that addresses the growing demand for domestic cargo but also sets benchmarks for operational efficiency and environmental responsibility. This new facility will bring us closer to realising our vision of becoming a premier air cargo hub, unlocking new opportunities and driving economic growth.” Charles Wyley, EVP Middle East, Africa & Asia, Menzies Aviation said: “Our new greenfield domestic cargo terminal at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) is a major step forward in our commitment to delivering efficient, reliable and future-ready logistics solutions. With the rapid growth in air cargo in India – which is set to reach 5.8 million tonnes by 2029, this facility is designed to not only meet today’s demand but to scale for future needs as the industry continues to evolve.” With the launch of this dedicated domestic cargo terminal, BLR Airport reinforces its position as a leader in innovation, efficiency, and sustainability within India’s air cargo landscape. As air cargo demand continues to rise, this terminal is set to be at the forefront, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Gurugram, January 27, 2025: Transport Corporation of India Ltd. (TCI), India’s leading integrated supply chain and logistics solutions provider, today announced its financial results for the third quarter ended December 31, 2024. Financial Highlights for Q3 FY2025: Revenue: TCI reported a consolidated revenue of ₹ 11,539 Mn, marking a growth of 14.1% compared to ₹ 10,115 Mn in the same period last year. EBITDA: The company’s Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) stood at ₹ 1,478 Mn, a 15.8% increase from ₹ 1,276 Mn in Q3/FY2024. Profit After Tax (PAT): PAT rose by 27.3% to ₹ 1,021 Mn, compared to ₹ 802 Mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Consolidated Management Commentary: Annotating the financial results of this quarter, Mr. Vineet Agarwal, MD – TCI, said, “This robust performance has been achieved through balanced growth across all our product lines. Our innovative solutions and customer-centric approach have strengthened our market position and delivered value to our stakeholders. We have seen a surge in demand for warehousing and temperature-controlled, 3PL green multimodal solutions from sectors such as FMCG & retail, agri++, automotive, engineering equipment and EPR. Additionally, our diversified offerings for emerging sectors like renewables, chemicals, quick-commerce and consumer electronics have expanded in response to growing market opportunities. While TCI has received the ‘ESG Registered’ badge from Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), we are equally honoured by India’s first ISO14083:2023 certificate being awarded to the Transport Emission Measurement Tool (TEMT) developed by the TCI-IIMB Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at IIM Bangalore. We remain steadfast in our commitment to on-ground actions that elevate sustainability standards within the transport and logistics sector. With the resumption of infrastructure spending and economic activity bolstered by private consumption in the rural economy, we anticipate a robust order pipeline in the coming quarters. To sustain our momentum and drive future growth, we are strategically investing in technology, talent, and specialized logistics assets, including warehousing, automation, rail, containers, and ships. We are dedicated to expanding our network and enhancing our capabilities to offer cutting-edge, tailor-made solutions for the evolving needs of an aspirational India.”

Bengaluru,17th Dec 2024: The TCI-IIMB Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), founded in collaboration with Transport Corporation of India Ltd (TCI), has become the first organization in India to achieve ISO 14083 certification for its ground breaking digital platform, the Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT). This certification underscores the platform’s ability to accurately quantify and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from freight transportation activities, helping organizations to measure, manage, and ultimately reduce their transportation-related emissions in line with regulatory requirements and sustainability goals. In India, the transportation sector is responsible for around 14% of the country’s total GHG emissions, with freight transportation accounting for nearly 40% of CO₂ emissions within this sector. Without intervention or cleaner technologies, transportation emissions are projected to increase by 4-fold between 2016 & 2050, potentially reaching 1.17 billion tonnes of CO₂ by 2050 and would increase the share of transport in total emissions to 19%. Accurate measurement is the critical first step toward mitigating these emissions. Organizations need robust tools to measure their emissions before they can take meaningful action to reduce them. The Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT), with its certified emissions factors across multiple transport modes, empowers organizations to quantify and report emissions accurately, setting the stage for effective emission-reduction strategies. ISO 14083, developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides a global standard for quantifying GHG emissions from transport operations. Applicable to road, rail, air, maritime, and inland waterway transport, it covers fuel combustion and electricity consumption. The standard outlines calculation methods, data requirements, and reporting guidelines, offering a standardized framework for tracking emissions and enabling organizations to make informed decisions on emission-reduction strategies. NICDC Logistics Data Services Limited (NLDSL), a subsidiary of the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has integrated ISO 14083 emission factors API into its flagship program, the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP). This integration enables users to seamlessly calculate emissions from freight activities, promoting transparency and sustainability in logistics operations. Shri Girish Kumar Surpur, CEO and Director, NICDC Logistics Data Services Ltd, mentioned that as NLDSL continues to innovate for a sustainable future, ULIP’s Carbon Emissions API, developed in collaboration with- TCI-IIMB Supply Chain Sustainability Lab at IIM Bangalore empowers trade and logistics players to measure the environmental impact of their transportation activities. By calculating the emissions and utilising other data sources available with ULIP — companies now can develop tools necessary for informed, actionable decisions on sustainability including modal shifts. Together, we can drive meaningful change towards a lower-carbon logistics ecosystem. The Transportation Emissions Measurement Tool (TEMT) is a comprehensive online platform designed to measure emissions across all modes of transportation. It integrates India-specific emission factors, validated through ISO 14083 certification, ensuring data accuracy and relevance. The tool allows users to calculate emissions for both past and future shipments and compare emissions between different transport modes for a given origin-destination pair. It also offers users the flexibility to build customized transportation chains, with all past entries securely stored in the cloud for easy monthly tracking and year-over-year comparison. The platform is commodity-agnostic, meaning it applies to all types of shipments, and outputs are available in PDF and CSV formats for ease of reporting and analysis.

Doha, 24th Nov 2024: Qatar Airways Cargo has launched the new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group. This partnership was inaugurated by Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer Cargo,Mark Drusch, and MASkargo’s Chief Executive, Mark Jason Thomas, marks a significant milestone in enhancing global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency. The collaboration, which officially began on 1 October 2024, has already seen the successful movement of approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo, including over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals. Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights now fly from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes. The strategic partnership will further solidify connectivity and efficiency to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a swift connection time of just 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur. The strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play a pivotal role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities. The agreement benefits both parties, allowing MASkargo to access key points in Europe, GCC, Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and North East Asia. It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets. Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, Mr Mark Drusch, said: “As the world’s leading global air cargo carrier, this partnership with MASkargo is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service and tailored solutions while expanding our global network through sponsorships. “By combining our strengths, we are able to offer our customers enhanced connectivity and efficiency, ensuring their products reach global markets in optimal condition. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and remain committed to setting the standard for excellence in the air cargo industry.” MASkargo Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Jason Thomas, added: “Today marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo as we join forces with Qatar Airways Cargo to create a truly interconnected global cargo network. This partnership represents a significant advancement in MASkargo’s mission to connect our customers to the world with increased speed and efficiency. “With this partnership, MASkargo is now better positioned than ever to serve as a bridge between South East Asia and key international destinations. This alliance with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens our infrastructure and capacity, empowering us to support the regional economy and facilitate the movement of high-demand goods to a larger global market, furthermore, setting new standards in cargo transportation”. In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies. This strategic joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing cargo offerings. The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines extends beyond cargo. As members of the oneworld alliance, both airlines have a strong partnership on the passenger side as well. The codeshare agreement, which includes 62 destinations across Malaysia, South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, exemplifies their commitment to providing seamless travel experiences. The strategic MoU signed in 2022 further enhances this partnership, facilitating an increase in flight options and destinations for passengers.

Penang, 29th Oct 2024: Raya Airways Sdn. Bhd. (“Raya”), Malaysian cargo airline, has announced that it has commenced the route between Penang and Hong Kong SAR with the inaugural flight on 28 October 2024 from Penang International Airport. The route will operate five flights per week. The route enhances DHL’s aviation network in Asia Pacific, and is served by Raya under DHL’s charter arrangement. Other than the Penang-Hong Kong route, Raya is also operating other charter services between Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong SAR as well as Kuala Lumpur and Singapore for DHL. Raya’s Group Managing Director, Mohamad Najib Ishak said, “We are pleased to be given trust by DHL to support their growing network, which is a testimony to their market leadership. Throughout the 14 years of partnership between the parties, Raya has developed a robust operational infrastructure to support DHL’s time-definite business model. In addition, we are also delighted to be given the opportunity to support the growth of Penang as a premier air cargo hub, given the presence of large high-end industrials in the state.” “The Penang-Hong Kong route will not be possible without the strong support of Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad as the airport operator, in providing the operation-critical arrangements. A special note of thanks to MAHB’s team, led by YBhg. Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, the Managing Director,” he added.

London, 22nd October 2024: IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has announced the return of its London Heathrow (LHR) and Jeddah King Abdulaziz International (JED) service from 2nd November 2024. The six times weekly service will be operated by a Boeing 787 widebody aircraft and will complement IAG Cargo’s existing connectivity to Saudi Arabia via the ten times weekly London Heathrow (LHR) to Riyadh King Khalid International Airport route. Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at IAG Cargo, said: “In the first quarter of 2024, trade in goods and services between the UK and Saudi Arabia totalled £17.6 billion*. The resumption of the Jeddah service – which has been paused since the Covid-19 pandemic – and the additional capacity to Saudi Arabia is therefore timely and will ensure additional choice and flexibility for our customers. “Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport is a vital air cargo hub for trade between the East and West and with plans to double its cargo handling capacity, we are very happy to announce the return of Jeddah to our expansive network which spans six continents.” Out of London, IAG Cargo offers capacity to six continents with over 600 weekly wide-body services. Additionally, Dublin serves as a gateway to North America, boasting over 80 weekly wide-body rotations. The business now offers over 240 weekly wide-body services connecting Madrid and Barcelona with destinations across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

São José dos Campos, Brazil, 10 October 2024: The E-Freighter, Embraer’s E190F has been fully certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Embraer’s passenger-to-freighter conversion and the Cargo Loading System, developed by U.S. Cargo Systems, have received the certification by FAA in September 2024. In July, the E-Freighter was certified by the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC) and EASA certification is due later this year. The aircraft was developed to fill a gap in the air cargo market and to replace older, less efficient models. The E190F program was launched in May 2022 to meet the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade, which require fast deliveries and decentralized operations driving the demand for faster delivery of shipments to regional markets. The E-Freighter made its debut flight in April and its first public appearance during the Farnborough Airshow in July. “FAA certification is an important milestone in our passenger-to-freighter conversion program. We are excited to enter this market, filling a gap that has evolved in the market to meet the growing demand globally for faster deliveries, not just to metro areas, but to all regions. With our E-Jet footprint across the US and worldwide, we are offering optimum cargo solutions to our customers for this connected world”, said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation. E-Jets converted to freighters will have over 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies. If combining capacity under the floor and main deck, the maximum structural payload is 13,500 kg for the E190F.