AP Expands Air Cargo Network to Boost Trade and Exports
The Andhra Pradesh government plans to expand air cargo operations to Vijayawada, Rajamahendravaram, and Tirupati in phases, following the revival of services at Visakhapatnam, the state’s key commercial hub. The move aims to strengthen export infrastructure and support industrial growth.
Speaking at the CII Partnership Summit, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ramamohan Naidu said air cargo has “huge potential” for pharmaceuticals, industrial spare parts, frozen seafood, aquaculture products, and horticultural crops, especially mangoes. He urged officials to prioritise the timely handling of exports and imports at Visakhapatnam.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the expansion. G. Sambasiva Rao, Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh chapter of the Air Cargo Forum of India, highlighted the need to upgrade storage and handling facilities at Visakhapatnam Airport and suggested considering Kurnool for future operations.
Rao highlighted the export potential of mangoes from Vizianagaram, seafood from the Godavari districts, and agricultural products from across the state. He noted that expanded air cargo services would support agriculture-based startups and enhance livelihoods for local youth and DWCRA members.
Previously, exporters relied on road transport to Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. The revived facilities now allow direct international shipments from Visakhapatnam, benefiting seafood processors, diamond units in the Visakhapatnam SEZ, and other industrial clusters.
Rajamahendravaram is also expected to see growth, particularly in handling chemicals and spares for oil exploration in the Godavari Basin, along with agricultural and horticultural exports such as prawns, crabs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
The expansion complements Andhra Pradesh’s three operational seaports and one upcoming port, strengthening the state’s logistics network, reducing transit times, and boosting trade competitiveness for both domestic and international businesses.