IndiGo CarGo, has ventured into scheduled cargo operations to Guangzhou, China, to cater to the increasing demand for inbound air cargo from the Asian nation. The new service will connect Kolkata with Guangzhou three times a week, with one of those flights continuing to Mumbai.
On February 26, 2024, the maiden flight was operated by a 14.7-year-old Airbus A321F aircraft registered as VT-IKY of IndiGo CarGo. The airline currently possesses three Airbus A321 converted freighters and offers services to various medium-haul international destinations alongside domestic flights.
IndiGo initially entered the cargo business in 2022 with the acquisition of its first Airbus A321P2F (Passenger To Freighter) aircraft. Since then, two more A321P2Fs have joined its fleet, facilitating flights to Sharjah, Vietnam, Myanmar, and multiple destinations within India.
Amidst the pandemic, IndiGo commenced its cargo operations, now transporting approximately 30,000 tonnes of cargo monthly, with revenue witnessing a steady 10% year-on-year growth. The airline aims to expand its cargo destinations and frequencies gradually, targeting a fleet utilization of around eight to nine hours a day.
In the Indian cargo market, IndiGo faces competition from SpiceXpress, a subsidiary of SpiceJet, and Pradhaan Air, which operates Airbus A320P2F aircraft. Notably, Pradhaan Air recently secured a strategic investor, the Ras Al Khaimah-based Vaayu Group, during the Dubai Airshow 2023.
The Indian air cargo industry has witnessed significant development in recent years, marked by advancements in technology and increased awareness about the sector. Currently, India’s air cargo industry stands as one of the most competitive and rapidly growing markets in the global air cargo sector.
