The AISATS Multi Modal Cargo Hub (MMCH) at Noida International Airport marks a significant milestone with the successful handling of its first domestic freighter flight on June 17th. Operated by Afcom Holdings, the Boeing 737-800F flight between Chennai and Noida carried nearly 20 tonnes of mixed cargo, including perishables, consolidation shipments, auto components and mobile devices, demonstrating its Integrated Cargo Terminal’s readiness to support seamless cargo movement through an integrated logistics ecosystem.
Spread across 87 acres, the AISATS Multi Modal Cargo Hub has been developed as a fully integrated platform comprising a 30-acre Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) and a 57-acre Integrated Warehousing and Logistics Zone (IWLZ). Bringing together cargo handling, warehousing, trucking and digital cargo management systems within a single ecosystem, the facility is designed to streamline cargo movement, reduce transit times and enhance supply chain efficiency for businesses across the National Capital Region and beyond.
Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO AISATS with other dignitaries at the inaugural ceremony
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani, Chief Executive Officer, AISATS, said: “The successful handling of the first freighter flight at our MMCH’s Integrated Cargo Terminal marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s cargo and logistics journey. As supply chains become increasingly time-sensitive and interconnected, the need for integrated logistics infrastructure has never been greater. The MMCH has been developed to bring cargo handling, warehousing and multimodal connectivity onto a single platform, enabling faster, smarter and more efficient movement of goods.”
“Today’s operation is a strong validation of that vision. By combining world-class infrastructure with seamless operational capabilities, we aim to create a logistics gateway that strengthens trade flows, supports businesses across North India and contributes meaningfully to India’s growing role in global commerce.”
The inaugural cargo movement also highlights the role the hub can play in strengthening supply chains for time-sensitive and perishable goods. With perishables forming a significant portion of the cargo handled at the ICT, the facility will help connect producers in southern and coastal regions with markets across North India more efficiently. By enabling faster and more reliable movement of temperature-sensitive shipments, including seafood, the hub is expected to improve market access for producers while enhancing the availability of fresh products for businesses and consumers.
Mr Deepak Parsuraman, Chairman and Managing Director, Afcom Holdings, added:
“The successful completion of our Chennai–Noida–Chennai freighter flight marks an important milestone not only for Afcom Holdings but for the evolution of India’s air cargo ecosystem. Partnering with AISATS at the Multi Modal Cargo Hub allows us to leverage integrated infrastructure that enhances operational efficiency and reliability. As cargo volumes become increasingly time-critical, such facilities enable us to deliver faster, more seamless connectivity for our customers while strengthening supply chains across key markets.”
Mr. Christoph Schnellmann, Vice Chairman, Noida International Airport, mentioned: “The successful handling of the first freighter flight at the Air India SATS Integrated Cargo Terminal marks an important step in establishing Noida International Airport as a logistics gateway for Northern India. The region’s strong manufacturing, electronics, and agricultural sectors require efficient and reliable cargo connectivity. The facility will help support businesses across the region by enabling faster movement of goods and strengthening access to domestic and global markets.”
The facility has been developed to handle a diverse range of cargo including perishables, pharmaceuticals, electronics, engineering goods, e-commerce shipments and express cargo. Strategically located within the National Capital Region and connected to key industrial and consumption centres, the hub is expected to play a significant role in strengthening cargo capacity, improving logistics efficiency and supporting India’s growing trade and export ecosystem.
About Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd (AISATS)
AISATS is a 50:50 joint venture between Air India Limited (TATA Group entity), and SATS Limited, one of the world’s largest providers of air cargo handling services and Asia’s leading airline caterer in Asia. As part of the Indian Government’s initiative to upgrade its airports to world-class facilities and attract more airlines to fly into India, AISATS was formed with the vision to provide world-class airport services in ground and cargo handling that exceed customers’ expectations.
About Noida International Airport (NIA)
Noida International Airport (IATA code – DXN) connects the greater Delhi area and Western Uttar Pradesh with other cities in India and the world. This world-class airport offers rich experiences and comprehensive commercial attractions and services to its passengers. NIA is committed to an ambitious net zero emissions goal supported by sustainable design and operations principles.
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL) was established for the development, construction and operation of the greenfield project – the Noida International Airport. The company, a 100% subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG, is responsible for the implementation of the public-private partnership project in close partnership with the Government of Uttar Pradesh and the Government of India. The concession period for Noida International Airport commenced on October 01, 2021, and will run for 40 years. The airport features one runway and one passenger terminal with a capacity to serve 12 million passengers annually. The airport masterplan provides for further development over the duration of the concession to serve over 70 million passengers annually.
About Afcom Holdings
Afcom Holdings Limited is a professionally managed international cargo airline. It is founded by industry professionals who have notable experience in building successful businesses. Afcom provides cargo solutions and products across various countries via international hubs. Afcom operates 3 Boeing 737-800BCF freighters and is looking to expand by the fleet by adding 2 additional aircrafts shortly.
