BLR Airport tops perishables exports in the country for the 4th consecutive year
In FY 2023-24, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport) continues to serve as the No. 1 airport in India for exporting perishables for the fourth consecutive year.
During the fiscal, BLR Airport recorded a total perishable cargo tonnage of 63,188 metric tons (MT), marking an impressive 18% growth compared to the previous fiscal year. This achievement highlights BLR Airport’s significant contribution to India’s perishable exports, handling 28% of the country’s total perishable cargo. BLR Airport also processed 44% of the South India’s total perishable cargo and 28% of the national share for FY 2023-24.
While BLR Airport excels in exporting a variety of perishable goods throughout the year, it secured the number one position for poultry product exports in FY 2023-24, shipping an impressive 47,041 metric tons. Additionally, the airport exported 2,050 metric tons of flowers. Overall, poultry, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits and flowers emerged as the leading perishable cargo categories.
Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer at Bangalore International Airport Limited, said, “We are immensely proud of our consistent and continued growth and leadership in perishable exports in FY 2023-24. This milestone reflects our commitment to excellence in an unbroken cold chain and the trust placed in us by our partners and customers. We have accounted for 44% of the total perishable cargo export share in the South India region, transforming BLR Airport into the premier gateway to South and Central India. Our focus remains on enhancing infrastructure and services to support the growing demand for perishable goods and further solidify our position as a key player in global trade”.
As an important gateway, BLR Airport significantly enhances connectivity, linking Indian producers with key international markets. The airport’s extensive network facilitates seamless transportation of perishable goods to over 100 global destinations, including top markets such as Oman, Singapore, Qatar, UAE, Maldives, UK and Kuwait. This connectivity not only boosts the export capacity of Southern India but also ensures that fresh produce reaches international buyers swiftly and efficiently.
BLR Airport also houses WFS BLR Coolport, India’s first integrated on-airport Perishable Handling Centre with a terminal capacity of 40,000 metric tons. This state-of-the-art facility, designed exclusively for perishable cold chain cargo, features on-site regulatory services, including plant and animal quarantine inspections, a drug controller lab, and Customs.
By continuously improving its infrastructure and services, BLR Airport is committed to supporting the growing demand for perishable goods. The airport’s strategic initiatives underscore its role as a crucial hub for agricultural and horticultural exports in India, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the industry, driving economic growth and fostering international trade relationships, emphasised a release.