Bengaluru Airport cargo volumes to rise 20 pc in FY25
Bengaluru: Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport is expected to handle 20pc more cargo volume this fiscal, buoyed by improved connectivity and rising demand for perishable goods, people familiar with the matter told media.
"FY24 was a very good year for us. We saw heightened demand in our perishable goods segment, which bolstered our overall growth. We also witnessed a good demand for the spares segment," said one of the persons cited above.
Bengaluru airport handled 63,188 metric tons of cargo in FY24, an 18% increase. The performance solidifies the airport's leadership in perishable cargo, handling 28% of India's total and 44% of South India's share, the airport said recently.
The airport shipped 47,041 metric tons of chicken products in FY24, ranking first in India for this category. There was also a 40% increase in electronics items and auto parts during the year.
"The increase in perishables volumes is due to seasonal demand, while the surge in electronics and automobiles is mainly due to the Red Sea crisis," a second person said.
Asked on the growth prospects for this fiscal, the person said, "Over the past two years, Bengaluru has bounced back drastically, not only in terms of infrastructure but in terms of connectivity as well. The fact that the airport enjoys brilliant international connectivity from both Indian as well as international carriers gives us confidence that we can continue to grow."
"The airport has a strategic location within South India. The average trucking distance from key industrial and airport locations in south India to Bengaluru airport is notably efficient, ranging from 6 to 12 hours," he said. "This central proximity to major industrial clusters throughout south India contributes significantly to the region's flourishing industrial landscape."
A spokesperson for Bengaluru airport did not respond to ET's queries.
Bengaluru airport dominates south India's air cargo market with a 42% share. It has a 13% share among Indian airports.
On export demand, the second person said there is a robust demand from the UK, Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
"Our development plans aim to increase capacity to over 1 million metric tonnes by the early 2030s. Initiatives include refurbishing existing cargo terminals to add 500,000 metric tonnes, constructing a new domestic cargo terminal for 250,000 metric tonnes, expanding the cold-chain facility by 80,000 metric tonnes, and building a Grade A logistics park spanning 370,000 square feet to meet industry needs," this person said.
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