In the dynamic landscape of global trade, the maritime and air cargo industries serve as vital arteries, facilitating the seamless movement of goods across continents. In 2024, airlines worldwide transported approximately 62 million tonnes of cargo, generating $120 billion in revenue. Although this marks a decline from the pandemic peak in 2021, the sector remains indispensable, supporting international trade valued at $8.3 trillion.

India’s air cargo market has demonstrated robust growth, with traffic expected to increase from 3.7 million tonnes in 2024 to between 5 and 5.8 million tonnes by 2029, reflecting an annual growth rate of 6-9%. In the fiscal year 2023, the total air cargo volume was estimated at 3.14 million tonnes, with international cargo accounting for 1.84 million tonnes and domestic cargo comprising 1.30 million tonnes. Notably, foreign carriers dominate India’s international air cargo market, capturing around 95% of the market share, primarily due to their extensive fleet of wide-body freighter aircraft.