Air cargo agents have raised concerns that the suspension of dedicated freighter operations at Mumbai could adversely impact India’s export shipments, particularly time-sensitive and high-value cargo, at a time when global demand is showing early signs of recovery.
Industry representatives said the absence of freighter capacity at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is forcing exporters to rely heavily on passenger aircraft belly space or divert cargo to other gateways such as Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. This is leading to higher costs, longer transit times and operational bottlenecks, especially for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, engineering goods and e-commerce.
Mumbai has traditionally been one of India’s key air cargo hubs, handling a significant share of outbound exports. Cargo agents noted that freighters play a critical role in moving oversized, urgent and temperature-sensitive shipments that cannot be efficiently accommodated in passenger aircraft.
According to trade bodies, the suspension could undermine the competitiveness of Indian exporters if it continues for an extended period. “With limited freighter options, exporters are facing space constraints and volatility in rates, which could impact delivery commitments and buyer confidence,” an industry official said.
Agents have urged authorities and airport operators to review the decision and explore interim solutions, including restoring limited freighter slots, extending operating hours at alternate airports, and streamlining transhipment procedures to minimise disruption.
The warning comes as India is seeking to scale up exports of high-value and perishable goods and position itself as a reliable global supply chain partner. Industry stakeholders cautioned that sustained capacity constraints at a major gateway like Mumbai could dampen export momentum in the near term if not addressed promptly.