CIAL Cargo Capacity Jumps 66%: What New Warehouse Means for Exporters

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has significantly boosted its air freight infrastructure. The airport inaugurated its extended export cargo warehouse on December 30, 2025. This major upgrade enhances the airport's ability to serve the growing logistics demands of South India.

Capacity and Infrastructure Upgrade

The expansion dramatically increases CIAL's annual handling capacity. The facility's capacity has risen from 75,000 metric tonnes to 1,25,000 metric tonnes. This represents a 66% jump in the airport’s export cargo throughput. CIAL Managing Director S Suhas, IAS, led the inauguration of the new facility. The project reflects CIAL's commitment to upgrading infrastructure to meet evolving trade needs.

Enhanced Specialized Cargo Handling

The expanded export cargo warehouse is equipped with advanced features. These upgrades are vital for handling diverse and sensitive air freight categories.

Key new features include:

• Two additional X-ray screening machines.
• Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) systems.
• A dedicated dangerous goods room.
• Two cold rooms for temperature-sensitive goods.
• A secure radioactive cargo room and a valuables room.

The cold rooms are maintained between +2°C and +8°C. This is critical for maintaining the integrity of pharmaceuticals and perishables.

Industry Impact and Operational Benefits

The CIAL cargo expansion is expected to deliver substantial benefits to exporters and air cargo operators. The new facility enables faster processing and more efficient operations.

• Reducing turnaround time for shipments.
• Strengthening cold-chain support for temperature-sensitive exports.
• Allowing efficient specialized cargo handling.
• Positioning Cochin Airport as a stronger hub for international trade.

The airport is now better equipped to handle a wide range of goods. This includes high-value consignments, pharmaceuticals, and perishables like fruits and vegetables. The move supports the growth of Kerala's export sector and regional logistics.

This infrastructure investment aligns with the growing demand for air cargo services India. As a key air cargo gateway, the Cochin International Airport upgrade is timely. It meets the stringent safety and security standards required by global aviation bodies like IATA and ICAO for dangerous and radioactive goods. Airlines and freight forwarders will benefit from the enhanced operational efficiency. The facility offers reliable and secure services to all exporters. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

The Challenge: While capacity is increased, CIAL must ensure seamless integration of the new security and handling systems. Maintaining the precise temperature in the cold rooms is also a continuous operational challenge. This is vital for high-value pharmaceutical exports. The airport’s ability to attract more dedicated freighter services will be key to maximizing the new 1.25 lakh metric tonnes capacity.