GMR Hyderabad International Airport has seen remarkable growth in its cargo operations. In 2024, the airport handled a total of 1,80,914 metric tons of cargo. This included 1,08,520 metric tons of international cargo and 72,395 metric tons of domestic cargo.
The airport continues to expand its global reach, operating flights to more than 20 international destinations. Hyderabad serves as a key gateway for exports, particularly for pharmaceutical shipments, which made up 72% of total exports. The United States and Europe were the biggest export destinations, accounting for 51% of all shipments from Hyderabad.
A new direct cargo connection was established with Ethiopia, with Ethiopian Airlines operating two weekly freighter services between Hyderabad and Addis Ababa. In October 2024, Lufthansa Cargo started using its own Boeing 777F freighters for operations in Hyderabad, improving efficiency and flexibility. Passenger flights also increased from five to six per week. Additionally, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines continue to operate scheduled freighter services, with Qatar Airways increasing its flights from two to three per week on the Hyderabad-Doha route from February 2025.
Hyderabad Airport exports cargo to various global destinations, including the USA, Europe, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Australia, and China. To meet growing demand, the airport is expanding its cargo infrastructure. Cargo Terminal 1 is being upgraded and will soon include a new Domestic Terminal, an International Courier/Express Terminal, and a dedicated Export Perishables Terminal. Additionally, a new Cargo Terminal 2 is under construction, with Phase I expected to be operational this year, significantly increasing handling capacity.
To further improve logistics, an additional 20,000 square feet of warehousing space is being developed at the RGIA Cargo Village. Speaking about these developments, Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd, said, “This achievement highlights our commitment to excellence in cargo handling. We are focused on expanding infrastructure, improving processes, and increasing capacity to support the growing demand. Our recognition as the best-performing airport for cargo import release times for the second consecutive year reinforces our dedication to efficiency and customer satisfaction.”
With these improvements, Hyderabad Airport is set to become a major global cargo hub, driving innovation and enhancing international trade.
