Emirates SkyCargo has ramped up freighter operations to and from Mumbai ahead of the planned temporary suspension of dedicated freighter handling at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
The additional flights are aimed at clearing backlogs and ensuring continuity of cargo movement before freighter operations are restricted due to infrastructure works and operational adjustments at the airport. Industry sources said the move is designed to minimize disruption for exporters and freight forwarders who rely heavily on Mumbai as a key air cargo gateway.
Mumbai handles a significant share of India’s international air freight, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods and high-value electronics. With freighter access set to be curtailed temporarily, airlines and logistics players have been adjusting schedules and exploring alternative airports to maintain supply chain stability.
Emirates SkyCargo’s decision to deploy extra capacity is expected to provide short-term relief to shippers, particularly those with time-sensitive consignments. The carrier operates a mix of dedicated freighters and belly-hold cargo capacity on passenger flights, offering flexibility in managing volumes during the transition period.
Logistics stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, as the freighter closure could lead to congestion at other major hubs if traffic is diverted. Authorities have indicated that the temporary suspension is necessary to streamline infrastructure and enhance long-term cargo handling efficiency at the airport.
Further operational updates are expected as airlines coordinate with airport authorities to manage cargo flows during the closure period.