Pune International Airport is witnessing an unprecedented surge in cargo traffic this festive season, underscoring the city’s emergence as a vital logistics and trade hub in western India. The airport has reported double-digit growth in cargo throughput, driven by strong demand from the automobile, perishable goods, and e-commerce sectors.
According to data from airport authorities, the cargo terminal handled 4,792.5 metric tonnes (MT) in September 2025, a robust 33% increase compared to 3,612.2 MT recorded in the same month last year. The growth momentum has sustained through October, with 4,040 MT processed by October 26 nearly equalling last year’s monthly total of 4,309.7 MT, with the final count expected to surpass it.Officials attribute this spike to a combination of seasonal demand, infrastructure expansion, and streamlined cargo operations. The airport’s modernised warehousing capacity and enhanced automation in cargo handling have significantly reduced turnaround time, enabling higher efficiency for freight forwarders and airlines alike. The improvements have also facilitated smoother coordination with customs and security agencies, ensuring faster clearance of goods.
A senior official from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) highlighted that Pune’s cargo operations have evolved in response to the city’s rapid industrial diversification and rising exports. “The continuous growth reflects Pune’s transformation into a strategic logistics gateway for western India. We are focusing on technology-driven solutions and sustainable cargo practices to manage future volumes effectively,” the official stated.Automobile components accounted for nearly 30% of the total cargo movement in recent months, followed by perishables such as pharmaceuticals and food products at 25%, and e-commerce consignments contributing around 20%. With the festive season in full swing, cargo traffic is projected to remain high through November, buoyed by retail consumption and manufacturing dispatches.
Industry analysts note that Pune’s cargo ecosystem is also benefitting from broader supply chain recalibrations post-pandemic. With manufacturers and logistics providers seeking decentralised hubs to reduce congestion at Mumbai airport, Pune is gaining traction as an alternative air cargo gateway. The city’s proximity to industrial clusters in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Ranjangaon, and Talegaon further strengthens its position in India’s logistics landscape.Authorities have indicated that ongoing investments in cold chain infrastructure and green logistics solutions will support the airport’s long-term sustainability goals. The emphasis on energy-efficient operations and digitised documentation aligns with India’s push for carbon-neutral growth in the aviation and logistics sectors. As Pune continues to strengthen its logistics ecosystem, the city is not just handling cargo it is powering the region’s economic momentum, one consignment at a time.
Pune Airport Cargo Soars 33 Percent Amid Festive Season Demand Surge
