JANUARY
As vaccine production ramped up, IAG Cargo kickstarted 2021 by delivering one million COVID-19 vaccine doses by mid-January, including 80,000 doses to the Canary Islands and the first batch of the Moderna vaccine to Dublin.
Meanwhile, as everyone continued to spend a whole lot of time on Zoom, the UK turned to beauty hacks. In one shipment alone, IAG transported 19,500 kilos of cosmetics into London Heathrow. While Madrid, on the other hand, were craving good coffee to rev up their 2021 – in one shipment from Bogotá in Colombia, IAG transported 2,800 tonnes of the much-loved roasted beans.
FEBRUARY
As February arrived, the airline's thoughts shifted to Valentine’s Day. With our loved ones at the forefront of our minds, it’s not surprising over 18 million flowers – the quintessential gift on Valentine’s Day – were transported across the network as lovers and friends celebrated the special occasion. For others, chocolate is the best way to say, ‘I love you’, which may explain the 3.2 million chocolate bars flown to South Africa by IAG that month.
In the middle of the month, IAG Cargo signed an agreement with UNICEF, committing its support to the organisation’s COVAX facility, the global effort aimed at providing equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.
February was also the month Germany introduced new rules requiring individuals to wear medical-grade face masks. To meet demand, IAG transported 1.7 million masks on a passenger aircraft converted into a freighter.
MARCH
In March, IAG saw the impact of the global revival in vehicle manufacturing. During the first quarter alone, the airline chartered nearly 100 flights carrying automotive spares, alongside the usual loads carried on our regular schedules.
With Canada seeing a record number of rounds of golf being played in 2020, IAG Cargo also shifted 17,300 tonnes of golf balls to the country in March alone.
APRIL
As some countries around the world eased their lockdown policies, the hospitality industry re-awakened. IAG transported various products to support the restaurants, pubs, and bars across the world as they geared up for service, including 2,000 tonnes of asparagus into Europe and the UK from the US and Latin America; 11 tonnes of frozen potatoes to make French fries in South Africa; and 95,000 bottles of Italian wine into the US.
Meanwhile, the airline also delivered four million roses to Barcelona as the city prepared for the festival of Sant Jordi – the day where lovers traditionally exchange books and roses to celebrate the Catalonian patron saint.
MAY
When India continued to battle rising COVID cases with dwindling oxygen supplies, IAG Cargo partnered with British Airways to fund two special charters delivering 45 tonnes of aid from charities, including Oxfam, Khalsa Aid, Christian Aid and LPSUK.
May was also the month the airline flew some very special cargo to their new homes around the globe, from lionesses and lemurs, to otters and penguins.
JUNE
While IAG played its part in helping the US enjoy 95,000 bottles of Italian wine, lots of whiskey, and… ballet shoes, UK supermarkets received a hefty delivery of 7,300 tonnes of mangos.
Not to be outdone by the previous month’s shipments of animal friends, in June, IAG also transported a leopard and two pygmy hippos to their new homes.
Then arrived the delight for IAG to complete the first sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) charter chain of 16 flights from Stuttgart to Atlanta. Working with partners Kuehne+Nagel, IAG Cargo sourced 1.2 million litres of sustainable aviation fuel. The collaboration marked the first time ever that passenger-freighter charter flights were operated with net-zero carbon emissions.
JULY
As restrictions on the hospitality industry eased more in the UK, India’s delights were in demand – IAG delivered many favourites from samosas and Indian chutney, to nearly 11 tonnes of lime pickle.
On a cargo-only flight from Bangalore to London, the airline uplifted 48,500kgs of cargo on a British Airways A350-1000 aircraft – a record for IAG Cargo for this aircraft from India. The record cargo-only flight comprised of a mix of products including perishables, automotive and pharmaceuticals.
Meanwhile, the airline also flew 100 kilos of snakes.
AUGUST
After the devasting earthquake that hit Haiti in August, IAG Cargo worked with the UK Government and UNICEF Spain to fly 25 tonnes of aid – from shelter kits to solar-powered lanterns – to help recovery efforts in the stricken country.
In August, the airline delivered four million doses of vaccines to Nigeria in collaboration with UNICEF and the COVAX initiative, along with 300,000 doses to Jamaica supported by Crown Agents and donated by the UK government.
While in Canada, preparations were underway for the mid-autumn Moon Festival in September and IAG delivered 3,500 kilos of mooncake for those celebrating the special event. That’s a whole load of baked goods.
SEPTEMBER
When September comes, new tech and big brand launches throttles airlines for the unofficial back-to-school month. As such, hi-tech and e-commerce deliveries took a substantial slice of IAG capacity.
OCTOBER
Diwali is a busy time for airlines considering India. Every year ahead of the celebrated festival of lights, IAG Cargo transports an array of traditional items to be used in the festivities. This year, IAG Cargo delivered a number of Ganesh and Lakshmi wax Idols along with Indian sweets, called Kaju barfi, to Canada.
NOVEMBER
As end of the year celebrations and festivities start to ramp up, November is always a very busy time. With November 1st marking Dia De Todos Los Santos (All Saints Day), IAG Cargo flew more than 12 million flowers to Spain from Colombia and Ecuador for people to celebrate the special and sacred holiday.
It was also the month IAG Cargo partnered with SEA LIFE to re-home a rescued olive ridley – or more commonly known Pacific ridley – turtle named April. The cargo airline flew April all the way from the Maldives to London, where she was then transported to her new home at SEA LIFE Loch Lomond in Scotland.
DECEMBER
As Christmas loomed and peoples’ thoughts turned to loved ones and friends around the globe, IAG Cargo transported millions of festive foods, including cherries, berries and chestnuts, and 500 tonnes of lamb into London, while flying more wine and cheese from Italy to the US.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
A significant milestone has been achieved in the Indo-Bangla railway project with the inauguration of the inaugural freight train connecting Bangladesh's Gangasagar to Tripura's Nischintanpur. This momentous event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the rail connectivity between the two neighboring countries. The new railway connection is set to enhance trade and commerce between India and Bangladesh, providing a more efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation for goods. It will not only boost bilateral trade but also promote economic development in the region by opening up new opportunities for businesses and industries. The Indo-Bangla railway project is part of a broader effort to improve connectivity and foster closer ties between the two nations. It is expected to play a vital role in facilitating the movement of goods and passengers, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both countries.
The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, underscores the government's commitment to strengthening India's logistics and supply chain infrastructure. Building upon previous initiatives, the budget introduces several key measures aimed at enhancing efficiency, connectivity, and sustainability in the sector. Maritime Development Fund A significant highlight is the establishment of a ₹250 billion ($3 billion) Maritime Development Fund aimed at revitalising India's shipbuilding and repair industry. The government will contribute 49% to this fund, with the remainder sourced from ports and private entities. This initiative seeks to enhance maritime infrastructure, reduce dependence on foreign carriers, and position India as a formidable player in global shipping. Plans include promoting shipbuilding clusters and extending a 10-year import tax exemption on inputs for shipbuilding and shipbreaking activities. Additionally, credit notes for shipbreaking will be issued to encourage the scrapping of old vessels and the construction of new ones. Expansion of Air Cargo and Regional Connectivity Recognising the critical role of air cargo in facilitating trade, especially for high-value perishable goods, the budget proposes significant investments in modernising air cargo infrastructure. This includes the development of state-of-the-art warehousing facilities equipped with advanced technology to ensure efficient handling and storage. Additionally, cargo screening and customs procedures will be streamlined to improve efficiency and reduce transit times and costs for exporters and importers. To further strengthen regional connectivity, the budget introduces a modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme. This initiative aims to connect 120 new destinations using turboprop aircraft and helicopters, with a target of carrying 40 million passengers over the next decade. The scheme includes substantial incentives and development plans for smaller airports, helipads, and greenfield airports, particularly in hilly and northeastern regions. This expansion is expected to bolster regional trade and integrate remote areas into the national economy. Capital Expenditure and Technological Integration The government has consistently increased budgetary allocations for infrastructure to reduce logistics costs and enhance supply chain efficiencies. Capital expenditures grew by 28.4% in FY24 and are expected to grow by 17% in FY25. This sustained investment underscores the government's commitment to strengthening the logistics framework. Additionally, there is a focus on technological integration, with expectations of reforms that will further accelerate growth and efficiency in the logistics sector. Industry Reactions Industry leaders have lauded the budget's balanced approach to strengthening infrastructure, manufacturing, and consumer spending. Key measures include tax relief for the middle class, increased access to essential drugs, promotion of electric vehicle production, incentives for renewable energy, and support for the agricultural ecosystem. Experts are optimistic about the budget's potential to increase disposable incomes and drive consumer demand while emphasising the importance of continued fiscal discipline and improvements in the ease of doing business. The budget includes significant steps towards developing India's startup ecosystem, enhancing real estate accessibility, and expanding global supply chains. Rampraveen Swaminathan, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Logistics, emphasises that the Union Budget reinforces India's position as one of the fastest-growing major economies, strengthening the roadmap for overall growth in consumption and infrastructure. He highlights that the ‘National Manufacturing Mission’ and 'Make in India' initiatives will further accelerate domestic production, fueling 'Move in India'—a vision for seamless cargo movement across the country. Additionally, the sustained emphasis on infrastructure development, along with a three-year project pipeline under the PPP model and state-backed incentives for capital expenditure, lays a strong foundation for future growth. He further notes that the budget’s focus on logistics modernisation—including PM Gati Shakti, streamlined air cargo warehousing, and the new BharatTradeNet initiative—will enhance India's logistics ecosystem. Aligned with these developments, Mahindra Logistics remains committed to leveraging technology, driving efficiency, and strengthening supply chain resilience. "We look forward to collaboratively building a future-ready, sustainable, and tech-driven logistics landscape, aligned with India's growth ambitions," he adds. C.K. Govil, President of the Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) & Chairman and Managing Director of Activair Airfreight India, acknowledges that the Union Budget 2025-26 presents a balanced roadmap that fuels economic expansion while maintaining fiscal prudence. He highlights that for the logistics, air cargo, and supply chain industries, the budget introduces key initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and driving modernisation. He further emphasises that these measures will strengthen the overall logistics framework, ensuring seamless operations and improved competitiveness. "The focus on infrastructure development and digital integration will play a crucial role in shaping a more efficient and resilient supply chain ecosystem," he adds.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for November 2024 global air cargo markets showing: Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 8.2% compared to November 2023 levels (9.5% for international operations) for a 16th consecutive month of growth. Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 4.6% compared to November 2023 (6.5% for international operations). "It was a good November for air cargo with 8.2% demand growth nearly doubling the 4.6% growth in cargo capacity. Fuel costs tracked at 22% below previous-year levels and tight market conditions supported yield growth at 7.8%. All things considered we are looking to close out 2024 air cargo performance on a profitable note. While this strong performance is very likely to extend into 2025, there are some downside risks that must be carefully watched. These include inflation, geopolitical uncertainties and trade tensions,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. Several factors in the operating environment should be noted: Year-on-year, industrial production rose 2.1% in October. Global goods trade grew for a seventh consecutive month, reporting a 1.6% increase. The Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for global manufacturing output was above the 50-mark for November, indicating growth. However, the PMI for new export orders remained below the 50-mark, suggesting ongoing uncertainty and weakness in global trade. US headline inflation, based on the annual Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose by 0.1 percentage points to 2.7% in November. In the same month, the inflation rate in the EU increased by 0.2 percentage points to 2.5%. China’s consumer inflation fell to 0.2% in November, continuing concerns of an economic slowdown. November Regional Performance Asia-Pacific airlines saw 13.2% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in November, the strongest growth among the regions. Capacity increased by 9.4% year-on-year. North American carriers saw 6.9% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in November. Capacity increased by 2.2% year-on-year. European carriers saw 5.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in November. Capacity increased 4.3% year-on-year. Middle Eastern carriers saw 3.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in November. Capacity decreased by 0.6% year-on-year. Latin American carriers saw 11.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in November. Capacity increased 6.4% year-on-year. African airlines saw a 0.7% year-on-year decrease in demand for air cargo in November, the slowest among regions. Capacity increased by 0.4% year-on-year. Trade Lane Growth: International routes experienced exceptional traffic levels for the 16th consecutive month with a 9.5% year-on-year increase in November. Airlines are benefiting from rising e-commerce demand in the US and Europe amid ongoing capacity limits in ocean shipping.
Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, has introduced significant updates to its IATA CEIV-certified LiveAnimals product, enhancing services to extend journey times and implement specialised provisions for brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds. These changes, effective from 1st November 2024, reflect Etihad Cargo's commitment to animal welfare, aligning with international standards to provide pet owners with flexible, high-standard travel options. The maximum transportation time for cats and dogs has been extended from 17 hours to 24 hours, applicable from acceptance at origin to the scheduled time of arrival (STA) at the final destination, in line with IATA and European Union Commission international regulations. This extension ensures that pets can undertake longer journeys safely and comfortably. Etihad Cargo has also implemented a seasonal policy to permit the transport of brachycephalic cats and dogs from 1st November to 1st March. Known for respiratory sensitivities, these breeds require specialised care during air travel, and the winter period provides safer travel conditions. All brachycephalic breeds will need additional checks, documentation, and approval from Etihad Cargo's Live Animals experts to ensure they are fit to fly safely. Commenting on the enhancements, Thomas Schürmann, Head of Cargo Operations and Delivery, said: "With these enhancements, Etihad Cargo is raising the standard of pet transport by extending the LiveAnimals offering for pets requiring longer journey times and by catering specifically to brachycephalic breeds during winter months. Etihad Cargo is committed to the highest levels of animal welfare, which has driven these improvements to meet the needs of pet owners and shippers globally." Etihad Cargo offers a comprehensive portfolio of specialised products tailored to meet diverse customer needs, including its IATA CEIV-certified LiveAnimals product for live animal shipments, temperature-controlled solutions for pharmaceuticals, and secure handling for high-value cargo. With an expanding global network and innovative logistics solutions, Etihad Cargo provides safe, reliable, and efficient air freight services across key markets worldwide.
