Chandigarh airport handled only 32% of its optimum cargo capacity in FY 2024-25

Chandigarh: Chandigarh's Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport utilised only about 32% of its optimum annual cargo-handling capacity in FY 2024-25, the Centre informed the Rajya Sabha during Question Hour.Responding to a query raised by Dr Vikramjit Singh Sahney regarding international connectivity and the cargo potential of airports in Punjab, minister of state for civil aviation Murlidhar Mohol said Chandigarh Airport has a total annual cargo-handling capacity of approximately 43,800 metric tonnes (MT), while the actual domestic cargo throughput during FY 2024-25 stood at 14,138 MT.
The data highlights a substantial gap between installed capacity and current utilisation, even as the airport recorded steady growth in cargo movement over the past 3 years.The Integrated Cargo Complex at Chandigarh Airport, which became operational in July 2023, emerged as a key logistics hub for industries across the region.According to Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) CEO Ajay Kumar, cargo volumes grew consistently since the facility was commissioned. The complex handled around 10,000 tonnes of cargo in 2023, which increased to 11,500 tonnes in 2024 and further to approximately 13,000 tonnes in 2025. The target for the ongoing financial year 2025-26 was set at 20,000 tonnes."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," Kumar said.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.Constructed at a cost of Rs 12.45 crore, the cargo centre comprises 5 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.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, a move that officials believe will significantly enhance export potential for both perishable and non-perishable goods from Punjab and adjoining regions, thereby strengthening the local economy.BOX 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 clearanceGet the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Valentine's day wishes, messages and gift idea !