The Western Region of the The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) convened its regional meeting on 3 February 2026 at Suba International Hotel, Mumbai. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Rajen Bhatia, Hon. Chairman, along with Mr. Shailesh Sharma, Hon. Secretary, and Mr. Farokh Hansotia, Hon. Treasurer.
The principal agenda centred on the proposed suspension of dedicated cargo freighter operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), following a circular issued on 11 December 2025 by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL). The circular outlines the construction of Taxiway “E” and pavement works on Apron “G”, which are expected to result in a suspension of freighter operations for up to 10 months.
While welcoming and fully supporting infrastructure development and safety enhancement measures, ACAAI members expressed serious concern over the prolonged suspension and its potential impact on exporters, importers, freight forwarders, airlines, custodians, and the broader air cargo ecosystem.
The meeting deliberated on several operational and regulatory challenges that may arise during the suspension period. These include the diversion of freighter and non-scheduled flights to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), management of split cargo movements, EGM integration under a single Shipping Bill, availability and cost of bonded trucking between Mumbai Airport and NMIA, customs clearance procedures, demurrage implications, and the readiness of Participating Government Agencies (PGAs) at NMIA.
Members stressed that clearly defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and advance planning are critical to ensuring operational continuity and minimizing disruption to trade flows. It was further highlighted that any mismanagement or prolonged uncertainty could prompt freighter airlines to shift operations to alternate hubs such as Bengaluru and Delhi, potentially leading to long-term loss of cargo volumes and connectivity for Mumbai.
In view of these concerns, ACAAI Western Region has sought a meeting with MIAL (Adani) to deliberate on the proposed suspension and work towards practical, workable solutions that balance infrastructure development with the operational requirements of the air cargo industry.
