International cargo operations set to resume at Vizag airport

Visakhapatnam International Airport resumes international air cargo operations, boosting economy and benefiting pharmaceutical, textiles, and seafood industries.

International air cargo operations are set to resume at Visakhapatnam International Airport, with the Andhra Pradesh Trade Promotion Corporation (APTPC) stepping in to take over the operations management.

In addition to significantly developing the region’s economy, the move is expected to bring relief to traders who have relied solely on road transport since 2019-20 for their exports and imports.

Pharmaceutical, textiles, and seafood industries are expected to benefit greatly from this initiative. The absence of international cargo facilities since 2019-20, when Visakhapatnam Airport last handled 470 tonnes of international cargo, has been a concern for exporters.

Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat made consistent efforts to ensure that the matter received attention from the Union Government. Collaborating closely with Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu and State HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, the MP facilitated discussions with airport authorities and central committees, which ultimately paved the way for the revival of air cargo operations, said to O. Naresh Kumar, a Member of the Airport Advisory Committee of Visakhapatnam Airport, on Sunday, January 12.

“The resumption of international air cargo services is a significant milestone for Visakhapatnam’s industrial sector. It not only ensures efficient logistics solutions but also showcases the city’s potential on the global stage,” Mr. Sribharat said, expressing his gratitude to Mr. Rammohan Naidu and Mr. Lokesh for their support.

Industry associations and entrepreneurs have welcomed the decision, describing the move as a game-changer for exports and imports in the region. The availability of international air cargo services is expected to streamline operations and enhance Visakhapatnam’s competitiveness in global markets.

The stakeholders are optimistic about scaling up exports from Visakhapatnam and leveraging the city’s strategic geographical advantage to attract more investments.