Air India is gearing up to play a key role in positioning India a global freight and logistics hub and has laid out initiatives to contribute to the development of an efficient air cargo supply chain for India’s exports.

The flag carrier has announced plans to grow its cargo capacity by 300 percent in 5 years and is looking to utilise space on its passenger planes to be able to move 2 million tonnes by 2028, with non-stop connection to key export markets.

The move comes as India anticipates growing its cargo throughput to 10 million tonnes by 2030. Air India is expecting some wide-body aircraft to join its fleet this year and has firm orders for 34 A350-1000, six A350-900, 20 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and 10 Boeing 777X.

The airline said the added capacity will be augmented with the launch of value-added products and services, including pharma logistics, door-to-door logistics with global partners, e-commerce, carriage of valuables, pets, cold chain for perishables, mail, trans-shipment with connection windows, and more.

To enhance productivity, Air India is in the process of integrating the latest IT solutions to strengthen the use of technology, including blockchain, AI, and drones. The airline has also started short-term changes in the existing IT cargo system to enhance efficiency in electronic data interchange, seamless connectivity with trade partners, and real-time updates on flight and shipment status.

Air India is also expanding its domestic network and strengthening interline partnerships and trucking network connections in a bid to provide point-to-point transportation to short- and long-haul destinations throughout the network. The flag carrier currently transports cargo to over 40 international and 38 domestic destinations. It recently unveiled its new livery as part of a major push for rebranding.