International Air Cargo Operations Resume at Visakhapatnam Airport After Pandemic Hiatus

By Admin

17 Nov, 2025

After more than four years of disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, international air cargo operations at Visakhapatnam Airport officially resumed on November 15   a development that marks a major milestone for regional trade, exports, and industrial growth. The announcement was made by Civil Aviation Minister K. Ramohan Naidu during the 30th CII Partnership Summit, bringing long-awaited relief to exporters who had been facing significant logistical constraints.

A Boost for Regional Industries

With operations restarting, industries across the region particularly pharmaceutical units in the Pharma Park, textile manufacturers, and enterprises in the Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone (VSEZ) can now expect smoother and faster cargo movement. Until now, many exporters had to depend on airports in Hyderabad and Chennai for their international shipments, which added to both transit time and cost. The reinstatement of cargo services at Vizag is expected to ease these challenges and provide a more efficient logistics solution.

Strong Passenger Connectivity Supports Cargo Revival

Visakhapatnam Airport currently operates two international passenger flights to Singapore and Abu Dhabi recording over 90 percent occupancy on most days. This steady flow of international traffic has created a strong foundation for reviving cargo operations, ensuring better connectivity and operational viability for airlines and freight handlers.

Efforts That Made the Revival Possible

The Andhra Pradesh Air Travellers Association (APATA) welcomed the move and extended its gratitude to Vizag MP Sribharat for his persistent efforts in coordinating with the Civil Aviation Ministry. The association also acknowledged Minister Ramohan Naidu for playing a pivotal role in restoring cargo activities at the airport. Their joint efforts have paved the way for renewed global linkages and an improved logistics ecosystem for the region.

Cargo Services to Expand Soon

Airlines such as IndiGo and Singapore Airlines are expected to commence dedicated cargo services in the coming days. This expansion will further enhance Visakhapatnam’s international connectivity, offering exporters greater flexibility and reducing dependency on distant airports.

In a joint statement, APATA representatives K. Kumar Raja, D. S. Varma, and O. Naresh Kumar encouraged cargo handlers and logistics operators to make full use of the revived facility. They emphasized that this restoration comes at a crucial time, presenting industries with an opportunity to strengthen their global reach and boost the Ease of Doing Business across Andhra Pradesh.

A New Chapter for Vizag’s Growth

The resumption of international air cargo operations signals the beginning of a new chapter for Visakhapatnam’s economic landscape. With improved logistics, strengthened international links, and renewed confidence among exporters, the city is poised to accelerate its role as a key hub for global trade.