Ahmedabad Airport’s new Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) has quickly become a central hub for the city’s air freight operations, capturing nearly 70% of international cargo traffic within just a month of becoming operational. The facility, spanning 21,000 square metres with the potential to expand up to 33,000 square metres, has processed around 5,000 metric tonnes of international cargo alongside a comparable volume of domestic shipments, according to officials familiar with the development.
The swift uptake reflects a strategic shift by major carriers. Airlines including Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines have transitioned their freight operations to the ICT, while domestic logistics players such as Blue Dart and SpiceJet are expected to commence services shortly. “The response from cargo carriers has been phenomenal. We are witnessing a significant upgrade in freight movement efficiency through Ahmedabad,” said an industry source tracking the project. The terminal’s introduction comes at a crucial time for the city’s export-driven economy. Gujarat’s strong manufacturing sectors, spanning pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, and engineering goods, have generated rising freight volumes, necessitating modern infrastructure to facilitate trade. From April to July in the current fiscal year, Ahmedabad Airport handled 20,000 metric tonnes of domestic and international cargo, contributing to a total of approximately 60,000 metric tonnes in FY25. The new terminal is expected to scale up operations to 200,000 metric tonnes per month once fully functional.
Officials note that early operational challenges were quickly addressed through streamlined staffing and upgraded systems. “We are coordinating closely with stakeholders to ensure scalable workforce deployment during peak hours, maintaining seamless cargo operations,” an airport spokesperson said. Unlike older facilities, which often faced capacity bottlenecks, the ICT offers faster turnaround times, improved connectivity, and enhanced adherence to global safety protocols. The terminal currently manages perishables, pharmaceuticals, courier shipments, and standard import-export consignments efficiently for both international and domestic routes. Industry experts highlight the broader significance of the development. Beyond improving operational efficiency, the terminal strengthens Ahmedabad Airport’s position as a key trade gateway in western India. By consolidating freight operations in a single facility, cargo movement is now more streamlined, reducing delays and supporting timely delivery schedules critical to export-oriented industries.
“The ICT not only supports economic growth but also aligns with sustainable logistics practices by optimising operations, reducing aircraft idling, and enhancing energy-efficient cargo handling,” said a senior airport official. As the facility continues to scale, it is expected to attract further investment, expand employment opportunities, and facilitate additional air freight connections, reinforcing Ahmedabad’s role in global trade networks.
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