CIAL Expands Gulf Cargo Operations With New IndiGo Freighter Service

KOCHI — Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has expanded its international cargo network with the launch of a dedicated freighter service to Sharjah by IndiGo CarGo. The new air freight link connects Kochi directly to Sharjah, facilitating the movement of commercial and time-sensitive consignments between Kerala and the United Arab Emirates.

The service is operated using an Airbus A321 freighter. Initially scheduled to run once a week, airport officials have outlined plans to scale the frequency up to three flights a week. This progression is expected to provide greater scheduling flexibility and increased cargo capacity for businesses operating in the region.

Exporters utilizing the route will gain improved access to Sharjah, alongside onward connectivity options to other markets across the Gulf and the wider Middle East. The route caters to a diverse range of commodities handled by CIAL's cargo facilities, including perishables, seafood, pharmaceuticals, garments, and other time-sensitive commercial shipments.

Commenting on the development, S. Suhas, Managing Director of CIAL, noted that the commencement of the scheduled freighter service strengthens the airport's existing cargo network. He added that enhanced international cargo connectivity supports the Kerala Government’s ongoing initiatives to develop Kochi into a major logistics hub, creating expanded opportunities for local industries and exporters to reach Gulf markets.

The launch event at CIAL was attended by senior figures from both organizations. S. Suhas presented a memento to Vipin Kumar Mohla, Vice President – Cargo at IndiGo. Other attendees included CIAL Airport Director Manu G., Executive Directors Saji Daniel and Santhosh J. Poovattil, CIAL Cargo Head Satheeshkumar Pai, and additional senior representatives from IndiGo.

CIAL continues to invest in its cargo infrastructure and airline network to meet the growing demands of exporters, traders, and the broader logistics sector in the region.

"The expansion of dedicated cargo connectivity between Kochi and Sharjah is a positive step for regional trade and logistics infrastructure. By improving direct access to Gulf markets for sectors such as perishables, pharmaceuticals, and seafood, this development directly supports export-driven businesses in Kerala. For logistics hubs and airports, scaling dedicated freight capacity is essential to reducing supply chain friction and meeting the growing international demands of local industries." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes