Continental Carriers and AISATS Forge Strategic Partnership for Noida Airport Cargo Operations
In a significant development for India's aviation logistics sector, Continental Carriers has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS). This collaboration is designed to facilitate the efficient transfer of export cargo to the upcoming Noida International Airport, marking a pivotal step in strengthening air cargo infrastructure in northern India.
Streamlining Export Cargo Transfer with Bonded Trucking
Under the terms of the agreement, customs-cleared cargo from Continental Carriers' air freight station located in Kapashera will be transported using bonded trucking services. This cargo will be moved directly to AISATS' integrated cargo terminal at Jewar, where it will be prepared for onward international dispatch. The process emphasizes coordinated handling, strict adherence to regulatory and customs protocols, and timely handover to designated airlines, ensuring a secure and compliant transfer chain.
Officials from both companies highlighted that this initiative aims to provide exporters with a cost-effective and streamlined gateway to the new airport. By accelerating cargo movement for airlines operating from Jewar, the model is expected to lower overall logistics costs. This reduction will be achieved through improved first-mile consolidation and enhanced terminal handling efficiencies, ultimately benefiting the export community.
Formal Signing and Key Figures
The MoU was formally signed on Friday at the multi-modal cargo hub (MMCH) in Jewar. Vaibhav Vohra, the Managing Director of Continental Carriers, and Ramanathan Rajamani, the CEO of AISATS, executed the agreement in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. This ceremony underscores the commitment of both entities to advancing cargo logistics in the region.
AISATS' Integrated Cargo Terminal: Ready for Launch
Ramanathan Rajamani provided detailed insights into the readiness of AISATS' Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT). The first phase of this facility, developed across 87 acres with an investment of Rs 2,000 crore, has been fully constructed and equipped. It has undergone extensive Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) trials, covering:
- End-to-end cargo flows
- Security screening procedures
- Systems integration
- Coordination with stakeholder agencies
The ICT is now operationally prepared to commence commercial cargo handling in alignment with the airport's launch schedule, Rajamani confirmed. However, the exact inauguration date has yet to be formally announced. Work on Phase 2 will commence once approximately 80% of the initial handling capacity is utilized.
Advanced Infrastructure and Compliance
AISATS has completed the installation and validation of critical cargo-handling and security systems at the ICT. These include:
- BCAS-approved X-ray machines for standard and outsized cargo
- Explosive trace detectors
- Door frame metal detectors
- Castor deck systems
- Other specialized material-handling equipment
The facility is fully compliant for both domestic and international cargo operations from day one, ensuring a versatile and robust infrastructure. The Phase-1 terminal boasts an annual handling capacity of 2.5 lakh metric tonnes and has been designed with scalability in mind to accommodate future growth in express and e-commerce volumes across northern India.
Future Integration and Workforce Development
AISATS is actively progressing on the integration of the ICT with the proposed Integrated Warehousing and Logistics Zone (IWLZ), which is targeted for completion within 14 to 18 months. To support operations, around 125 personnel have already been onboarded for roles in cargo operations, security screening, and equipment handling. Further ramp-up is planned in line with anticipated traffic growth, ensuring the facility can meet increasing demand.
Background on the Collaborating Entities
Continental Carriers, established in 1957, is a prominent provider of end-to-end logistics solutions. Its services encompass air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and warehousing. The company operates a Greenfield RA3 and C-TPAT (Category A) certified Air Freight Station at Kapashera, underscoring its commitment to security and efficiency.
AISATS is a 50:50 joint venture between Air India Limited and SATS Limited. Since commencing operations in 2008, it has been a key player in providing ground and cargo handling services at multiple airports across India. Currently, the company employs around 17,000 personnel, reflecting its extensive experience and capability in the aviation logistics domain.
This partnership between Continental Carriers and AISATS represents a strategic move to enhance the cargo ecosystem at Noida International Airport, promising improved logistics efficiency and cost savings for exporters in northern India.
