Chandigarh Airport's Cargo Hub Operates at Only 32% Capacity, Reveals Government Data

In a recent disclosure to the Rajya Sabha, the Centre reported that Chandigarh's Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport utilized approximately 32% of its optimum annual cargo-handling capacity during the financial year 2024-25. This information was shared by Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol in response to a query from Dr. Vikramjit Singh Sahney regarding international connectivity and cargo potential at airports in Punjab.

Substantial Gap Between Capacity and Utilization

The airport has a total annual cargo-handling capacity of around 43,800 metric tonnes (MT), but the actual domestic cargo throughput for FY 2024-25 stood at 14,138 MT. This data underscores a significant gap between installed capacity and current utilization, even as the facility has shown steady growth in cargo movement over the past three years.

Growth Trajectory of the Integrated Cargo Complex

The Integrated Cargo Complex at Chandigarh Airport, which became operational in July 2023, has emerged as a key logistics hub for industries across the region. According to Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) CEO Ajay Kumar, cargo volumes have grown consistently since the facility was commissioned. The complex handled about 10,000 tonnes of cargo in 2023, increased to 11,500 tonnes in 2024, and further rose to approximately 13,000 tonnes in 2025. The target for the ongoing financial year 2025-26 is set at 20,000 tonnes.

Kumar expressed confidence in achieving this goal, stating, "The Integrated Cargo Complex is gaining popularity every day. We started with 10,000 tonnes in 2023, grew to 11,500 tonnes the following year, and this year we already handled 13,000 tonnes. We are confident of touching 20,000 tonnes this financial year."

Facility Details and Key Cargo Segments

Constructed at a cost of Rs 12.45 crore, the cargo centre comprises five sheds, including a cold room, with a storage capacity of 2,500 MT. It is currently one of the few such integrated facilities in northern India outside Delhi. The facility primarily caters to motor parts manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, and e-commerce operators. Recently, it also began handling perishable consignments, supported by a dedicated cold storage unit within the complex.

Current Operations and Future Prospects

At present, three airlines—Vistara, Air India, and IndiGo—operate cargo services from Chandigarh, connecting major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. On its inaugural day in July 2023, the facility recorded cargo bookings of 1,889 kg for Delhi and 2,182 kg for Bengaluru. The cargo operations received Regulated Agent (RA) status from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on June 7, 2023.

Currently, the complex handles only domestic cargo. International cargo operations are expected to commence once Customs clearance is obtained. Officials believe this move will significantly enhance export potential for both perishable and non-perishable goods from Punjab and adjoining regions, thereby strengthening the local economy.

Chandigarh Cargo Complex at a Glance

Operational Since: July 2023
Capacity: 2,500 MT (only facility in North India after Delhi)
Growth: From 10,000 tonnes in 2023 → 11,500 tonnes in 2024 → 13,000 tonnes in 2025
Target: 20,000 tonnes in 2025-26
Key Cargo: Motor parts, pharma, e-commerce, perishables (cold storage available)
Cost: Built at Rs 12.45 crore with 5 sheds, including 1 cold room
Airlines Handling Cargo: Vistara, Air India, IndiGo
International Cargo: To begin after Customs clearance