CARGOCONNECT-OCTOBER2024 - Flipbook - Page 54
FEATURE : AIR FREIGHT MARKET
their reach globally, there is an increasing need for e昀케cient and
reliable shipping solutions. Air freight o昀昀ers a competitive advantage
in this context, providing faster transit times and ensuring timely
deliveries to global markets.
The sector is also adapting to the increasing importance of
sustainability. Companies are exploring ways to reduce their carbon
footprint by investing in more fuel-e昀케cient aircraft, optimising
flight routes, and adopting green technologies. This focus on
sustainability is becoming a key consideration for both consumers
and businesses, in昀氀uencing their choice of logistics providers.
Agility and Responsiveness in a
Global Market
The government and
industry stakeholders must
work together to ensure
that policies support the
expansion of freighter
operations and improve the
overall business environment for air cargo. There
should be incentives for
both high-value and perishable goods. Additionally,
infrastructure improvements and alignment with
global standards will be
essential to enhance the
sector’s efficiency and
attract more investment.
K S KUNWAR
Achieving a milestone
of 10 million tonnes
in air cargo is not just
a target; it represents
our commitment to
significantly enhancing the
air cargo ecosystem, both
in India and globally. While
10 million tonnes is an
important benchmark, we
are focussed on a broader
vision, anticipating even
greater achievements as
India continues to develop
its air cargo capabilities.
YASHPAL SHARMA
Managing Director,
Skyways Group
Director General, Air Cargo
Forum India (ACFI)
advanced security measures are needed for high-value items. This
evolving demand is pushing the sector to innovate and adapt quickly.
Companies are focussing on express delivery services, improving
last-mile connectivity, and leveraging data analytics to understand
and anticipate consumer needs.
The rise of omnichannel retailing, where consumers expect a
seamless integration between online and o昀툀ine shopping experiences,
is also in昀氀uencing air freight operations. Retailers are seeking more
昀氀exible and responsive logistics solutions to meet the expectations
of a connected consumer base. This includes faster delivery times,
improved tracking capabilities, and enhanced customer service.
Additionally, the growth of cross-border e-commerce is driving
demand for international air freight services. As businesses expand
54 | CARGOCONNECT OCTOBER 2024
In a rapidly changing global market, agility and responsiveness are
crucial for maintaining competitiveness. India’s air freight sector is
demonstrating its ability to adapt by embracing 昀氀exible operational
models and innovative solutions. Collaboration among stakeholders,
including airlines, freight forwarders, and government agencies,
is essential for managing supply chain complexities and adapting
to shifts in global trade patterns. Here, associations like ACFI,
representing all stakeholders in India’s air cargo movement, are
playing a pivotal role in addressing and resolving industry issues.
According to B K Mehrotra, Deputy Director General of
ACFI, “We are a dedicated association representing all stakeholders
involved in air cargo movement, both domestic and international.
We serve as the collective voice of these stakeholders, addressing
and formally examining industry-related issues raised by them.”
He further explains, “When issues are validated as genuine
and relevant, ACFI engages with the appropriate ministries or
departments. We address local issues where possible and escalate
national or policy-related matters to higher authorities such as
CBIC, MoCA, or DGCA.” This approach ensures that both immediate
concerns and broader policy issues are managed e昀昀ectively.
The sector’s responsiveness is also evident in its ability to
handle disruptions and adjust strategies as needed. For example,
during periods of geopolitical tension or natural disasters, air
freight companies must quickly adapt to changes in supply chain
dynamics and operational challenges. The development of multimodal
transport solutions, which combine air freight with other modes of
transport, contributes to greater 昀氀exibility and e昀케ciency.
In addition to operational 昀氀exibility, the sector is investing in
advanced technologies to improve its responsiveness. Automation,
robotics, and arti昀椀cial intelligence (AI) are being leveraged to optimise
route planning, predict demand patterns, and manage inventory
more e昀昀ectively. These technologies enhance the sector’s ability to
respond swiftly to changes in demand and operational conditions.
Furthermore, the integration of digital platforms and data
analytics is enabling better decision-making and forecasting.
Companies are using big data to analyse trends, optimise logistics
networks, and improve customer service. By leveraging these tools,
the sector can enhance its responsiveness and adapt to changing
market conditions more e昀昀ectively.
As Sharma notes, “The goal is to provide comprehensive solutions
that address the full spectrum of industry needs, from operational
issues to emerging opportunities.” This holistic approach is vital
for navigating the complexities of a dynamic market and ensuring
that the sector remains competitive on a global scale.
ACFI’s team, consisting of industry experts from various
sectors—including airlines, customs, and freight forwarding—plays
a crucial role in presenting and advocating for industry issues.
