Air Cargo and the Indian Economy: GMR's Role in Global Supply Chains

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Air Cargo and the Indian Economy: GMR's Role in Global Supply Chains

23 April 2025

When a life-saving vaccine manufactured in Hyderabad reaches a patient in New York within 48 hours, or when your e-commerce order from overseas lands at your doorstep in record time, a powerful supply chain is at work. At the center of this global connectivity is GMR Group, whose cutting-edge infrastructure is reshaping India's role in the world of air cargo logistics. This transformation highlights the economic impact of air cargo and its crucial role in the Indian economy.

The Silent Engine of the Indian Economy

Air cargo might be invisible to most consumers, but its impact on the Indian economy is profound. Globally, it carries over a third of the total trade value, handling high-value and time-sensitive goods such as electronics and pharmaceuticals. In 2025, India is becoming a vital node in this supply chain management revolution.

Delhi Airport stands as India’s largest air cargo gateway, managing over one million metric tonnes annually. Hyderabad International Airport adds another 180,000+ tonnes, with pharmaceutical exports forming 72% of the total. This scale underscores the growing importance of logistics companies in India.

GMR Cargo: Infrastructure That Sets Global Benchmarks

Delhi International Airport: India’s Gateway to Global Trade

Spanning 150 acres, the cargo facilities at Delhi Airport feature two integrated terminals, a logistics center, and connectivity to 70+ international and 80+ domestic destinations. What differentiates Delhi Airport is its focus on operational and digital excellence:

Advanced Temperature Control: Facilities with over 150,000 metric tonnes capacity ensure secure handling of sensitive goods.
Digital Transformation: Delhi was the first to receive IATA’s e-AWB 360 certification for 100% e-freight compliance.
Customs Certification: It was also the first airport in India to be AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) certified.

Hyderabad: India’s Pharma Export Powerhouse

Hyderabad International Airport plays a pivotal role in India’s pharmaceutical supply chain. “Hyderabad Cargo is the preferred gateway for pharmaceuticals and vaccine movements in the South Asia region. We are pleased at the remarkable growth in cargo operations at HYD Airport in CY'24. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on this momentum and to drive further innovation, positioning HYD Airport as a key global cargo gateway,” says Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CEO - GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd.

Over 180,000 metric tonnes of cargo handled annually
72% of exports are pharma products
50% of exports head to the US and Europe

To support this, GMR Hyderabad Cargo is upgrading Cargo Terminal 1 and building Cargo Terminal 2, which will introduce perishable export zones, courier hubs, and expanded warehousing.

Cold Chain Infrastructure: The Backbone of Pharma Exports

With Indian pharmaceutical exports valued at US$27.9 billion in FY 2023–24, up to 9.4%, cold chain logistics have never been more critical. GMR Group ensures safe handling of sensitive cargo:

Temperature-controlled warehouses
Dedicated cold chain handlers
IoT-enabled monitoring for real-time tracking

These features are crucial for maintaining the quality of vaccines, biologics, and APIs, positioning GMR Cargo as a leader among logistics companies in India.

Connecting India with the World

Delhi Airport connects to 150+ destinations via 67+ carriers and 30+ freighter airlines. Hyderabad Airport supports cargo movement to 20+ international destinations, reinforcing India’s global supply chain management framework.

Enabling India's Export Competitiveness

Air cargo fuels multiple sectors in the Indian economy:

Pharmaceuticals: Ensures fast, safe global delivery
Agriculture: Cold chain logistics enable perishable exports
E-commerce: Supports next-day delivery
Manufacturing: Facilitates just-in-time inventory

These capabilities improve export competitiveness and attract global investments.

GMR Aero Academy: Building Logistics Talent

Infrastructure alone is not enough, skilled professionals are essential. GMR Group addresses this through GMR Aero Academy:

Certificate in Airport and Cargo Operations
Online Introductory Course in Cargo
IATA-Certified Dangerous Goods Regulations Training

These programs build a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to serve in India’s logistics and air cargo industry.

Aerotropolis Vision: The Future of Air Cargo

GMR Aerocity Hyderabad spans 1,500 acres with 200+ acres as SEZ and 77 as Domestic Tariff Area. It aims to:

Integrate manufacturing, warehousing and transport
Cut transit times
Improve cost-efficiency
Meet global logistics standards

Technology & Sustainability: Next-Gen Air Cargo

GMR Cargo integrates technology to increase efficiency and sustainability:

IoT & Automation: Real-time monitoring and reduced errors
Digital Docs: Paperless processing
Green Energy: Eco-friendly temperature control systems

Looking Ahead

Indian pharmaceutical market is estimated to touch US$ 130 billion in value by the end of 2030, according to a recent EY-FICCI report. GMR Group is positioning India for this future with:

Increased terminal capacity
Advanced automation
Global compliance
Trained logistics professionals

From cold chain pharma exports to e-commerce fulfillment, GMR Group is redefining the economic impact of air cargo on the Indian economy. With world-class infrastructure, innovative logistics solutions, and a future-ready workforce, GMR Cargo is not just moving goods, it is powering India's growth in global trade.

Ready to launch your career in air cargo? Explore GMR Aero Academy’s training programs and become part of India’s next-generation logistics professionals.