Hyderabad airport sees 22% growth in cargo handling in CY 2024

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. handled 180,914 metric tonnes of cargo in CY 2024, comprising 108,520 metric tonnes of international cargo and 72,395 metric tonnes of domestic cargo. This represents a 22% increase in cargo growth compared to CY'23, driven by a 36% surge in international cargo and a 5% growth in domestic cargo.

In CY 2024, Hyderabad Airport operated cargo flights to over 20 international destinations, facilitating exports to global markets. Pharmaceutical shipments comprised 72% of the total exports, with the United States and Europe being the largest export regions, accounting for 51% of the total exports. The airport also established a direct connection to the African market with Ethiopian Airlines operating two weekly freighter services between Hyderabad and Addis Ababa.

Lufthansa Cargo began operating Boeing 777F freighters from Hyderabad in October 2024, enhancing its direct cargo operations in the Indian market. Qatar Airways increased its freighter frequency on the HYD-DOH route from 2 to 3 weekly, effective February 2025. Additionally, passenger flight frequency increased from five to six weekly.

HYD Airport has achieved several notable recognitions. It was named the best performing airport for cargo import release times for the second consecutive year, as per the National Time Release Study (NTRS) 2024, and also ranked second-best for export release times. Additionally, Hyderabad Cargo has been reaccredited under the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations Program (ISAGO) in February 2024, reaffirming its commitment to safety and quality in ground handling. The Cargo Terminal at Hyderabad also achieved U.S. Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certification, streamlining cargo clearance for U.S.-bound shipments and benefiting from expedited processing and reduced inspections.

Hyderabad Airport's cargo infrastructure is being expanded to meet growing demand. The existing Cargo Terminal 1 is being upgraded and will feature a state-of-the-art Domestic Terminal, an International Courier/Express Terminal, and a dedicated Export Perishables Terminal. A new Cargo Terminal 2 is under construction, with Phase I expected to become operational this year. An additional 20,000 square feet of warehousing space is being developed within the RGIA Cargo Village.

"We are pleased at the growth in cargo operations at HYD Airport in CY'24. This achievement underscores our commitment to excellence in both international and domestic cargo handling, with a growth in international cargo. As a hub for cargo in India, we remain dedicated to developing infrastructure, optimising processes, and enhancing our capacity to serve diverse cargo needs. Our recognition as the best-performing airport for cargo import release times for the second consecutive year reinforces our focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on this momentum and to drive further innovation, positioning HYD Airport as a key global cargo gateway," said Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CEO, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd.