Kempegowda International Airport witnessed a surge in floral cargo this Valentine’s season, handling a record 60 million roses in the run-up to February 14, underlining its growing role as a key export gateway for India’s floriculture sector.
Airport officials said the bulk of the shipments were destined for major international markets including Europe, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where demand for fresh-cut roses spikes sharply ahead of Valentine’s Day. The flowers were primarily sourced from farms around Bengaluru and other parts of Karnataka, one of India’s leading floriculture hubs.
The airport’s dedicated perishable cargo facilities played a crucial role in ensuring seamless handling, temperature-controlled storage and rapid processing of consignments to maintain freshness and quality. Industry stakeholders noted that tight logistics coordination, streamlined customs clearance and expanded freighter capacity helped manage the seasonal spike efficiently.
India’s floriculture exports have been steadily expanding, with roses accounting for a significant share of outbound shipments during the Valentine’s period. Exporters said improved air connectivity and upgraded cold-chain infrastructure at Bengaluru Airport have strengthened India’s competitiveness in global flower markets.
The record rose movement highlights the airport’s position as a leading perishable cargo hub in South India and reflects the broader growth of time-sensitive agricultural exports from the region.