Visakhapatnam Airport Cargo Plan Shelved as Operations Shift to Bhogapuram
International cargo operations from Visakhapatnam airport have been officially shelved, ending a proposal that had been under consideration for over a decade. Once seen as a key boost to the region’s export potential, the plan has lost relevance due to declining international connectivity and the near closure of civilian operations.
The airport, which previously offered flights to Singapore, Malaysia, Bangkok, Sri Lanka, and Dubai, now operates only two international routes—Singapore and Abu Dhabi, both by IndiGo. Officials cited low demand and the absence of a custodian agency for handling cargo and documentation as reasons for dropping the plan.
Despite persistent efforts from successive MPs, including Daggubati Purandeswari, Kambhampati Haribabu, and M Sribharat, no international shipments were ever handled from the city. Civilian operations at the airport are set to end within months, with the facility slated for transfer to the Navy once the new Bhogapuram international airport becomes operational. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has confirmed construction will be completed by June 2026, with commercial flights expected from September.
Industry representatives and exporters have expressed disappointment. They argue that Visakhapatnam’s robust industrial base—including two ports, a steel plant, pharmaceutical units, seafood exporters, and the Brandix apparel park—justifies a dedicated air cargo terminal. Such a facility, they say, would have strengthened the city’s logistics network and complemented its seaport infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the state government has proposed a cargo airport at Palasa, approximately 195 km away. While funds have been allocated for a land survey and a public hearing has been conducted, local farmers oppose the plan, citing inadequate infrastructure.
Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stated that the Palasa airport could support cashew exports and boost industry in north coastal Andhra. Industry stakeholders, however, maintain that Visakhapatnam remains the more practical choice for a regional air cargo hub.