India’s air cargo industry is set to receive a significant boost with the development of a new international cargo terminal at Dholera International Airport (DIACL) in Gujarat. This new terminal is poised to become a major cargo handler, enhancing the country’s logistics capabilities and supporting its booming air cargo trade1.
A Strategic Development
the new airport, the third in Gujarat, has also been designed to support New Delhi’s ambitious Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project, touted as the largest infrastructure push in the country, with an original budget of some $90bn. The new cargo terminal is part of the first phase of development at DIACL, which includes a 3.2-kilometer runway and 12 aircraft parking stands. The project, estimated to cost around $150 million, is a joint venture between the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and two state entities1. The terminal, spanning 10,700 square feet, is expected to commence international operations by June or July this year.
Boosting Cargo Volumes
With the new terminal, DIACL aims to handle export and import cargo volumes reaching 20,000 tonnes in 2025-26, with projections rising to 273,000 tonnes over the next two decades. This development is crucial as Gujarat’s main international airport in Ahmedabad has already reached its saturation point1.
Supporting the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor
The new airport is also designed to support the ambitious Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project, which is considered the largest infrastructure push in the country. This project aims to enhance connectivity and economic growth between Delhi and Mumbai, further solidifying India’s position as a global trade and logistics leader1.
A Hub for Semiconductor Manufacturing
Dholera is set to become a key semiconductor manufacturing hub, making the airport project even more significant. The integrated cargo community ecosystem linking multiple airports will enhance the pace of cargo flow, especially given their strategic proximity to seaports for potential multimodal synergies1.
Conclusion
The new terminal at Dholera Airport is a testament to India’s commitment to bolstering its air cargo infrastructure. With promising market indicators and strategic developments, the future looks bright for India’s air cargo trade. As the terminal goes live, it will undoubtedly play a vital role in enhancing the country’s logistics capabilities and supporting its growing economy.
