The partnership will support Afcom in basing its aircraft at NIA and operating freighter services, further strengthening the airport’s position as a key logistics and cargo hub in North India.

Under the scope of the agreement, the parties will work closely to identify viable international markets and design a robust network plan based on cargo demand and flow. The collaboration will also ensure alignment of operational and infrastructure requirements, alongside developing a joint marketing strategy to support long-term sustainability and growth of Afcom’s cargo operations from NIA.

Afcom, a Chennai-based international cargo airline, operates a fleet of three Boeing 737-800 freighters and serves key destinations including Bangkok, Yangon, Hanoi, Colombo, Malé, and Dubai. The airline is an integrated air cargo solutions provider, offering services across general cargo, project cargo, and high-value shipments such as perishables, electronics, and dangerous goods.

Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Kiran Jain, Chief Operating Officer, Noida International Airport, said: “This partnership with Afcom and AISATS marks an important step in building a robust air cargo ecosystem at Noida International Airport. By enabling dedicated freighter operations and aligning closely with industry partners, we aim to unlock the significant cargo potential of the region and enhance global connectivity for North India.”

Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO, AISATS added, “AISATS is delighted to partner with NIA and Afcom Holdings Limited in this important initiative to shape the future of air cargo at Noida International Airport. As India’s trade and logistics requirements continue to evolve, the need for efficient, future-ready cargo infrastructure and reliable operating partnerships has never been greater. Through this agreement, we look forward to bringing our deep expertise in cargo handling, operational excellence, and customer-centric service delivery to support the development of a seamless, scalable and globally competitive cargo ecosystem at DXN. This collaboration is an important step in unlocking new trade flows, strengthening regional supply chains, and contributing to India’s emergence as a major global logistics hub.” 

Speaking on the collaboration Capt Deepak Parasuraman, Chairman of Afcom Holdings ltd said, “This partnership is one of the unique propositions to our customers for bringing in world-class air cargo services and jointly building a robust air cargo system at Noida International Airport. This partnership will open new trade lanes, shortening the supply chain for industries in this part of the world and positioning Noida International Airport as a key logistics hub.”

The agreement reflects a shared vision to unlock emerging cargo opportunities Western Uttar Pradesh and the National Capital Region. With increasing demand for efficient logistics and global trade connectivity, the collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing cargo throughput and enabling seamless international freight movement from Noida.

This partnership marks another step in Noida International Airport’s commitment to developing a world-class cargo ecosystem and supporting India’s growing role in global trade.

~Kochi becomes AISATS’ second station in Kerala and eighth airport nationwide, setting new benchmarks in safety, efficiency and green operations~

Bengaluru, 3^rd December, 2025: Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd. (AISATS) has expanded its national footprint with the commencement of full-scale ground handling operations at Cochin International Airport. With plans to scale its manpower as traffic grows, AISATS has deployed an initial team of 150 trained professionals at its second station in Kerala and eighth airport across India. The launch brings future-ready technology, globally benchmarked safety systems, and sustainable ground handling solutions to one of India’s most strategically important aviation hubs.

AISATS has launched operations at Cochin International Airport to support its airline customers, starting with Batik Air and Thai Lion Air, and all other international and domestic carriers planning to fly through this key aviation hub. Bringing future-ready technology, globally benchmarked safety systems, and sustainable ground handling solutions, AISATS reinforces its commitment to delivering world-class service. With over 28 airlines operating at the airport, nearly 60,000 tonnes of cargo handled, and more than 10 million passengers recorded in FY24, Kochi represents a high-potential market where the need for efficient, technology-driven, and safety-focused ground operations is rapidly increasing. AISATS’ entry brings globally benchmarked systems and next-generation passenger service platforms, automated workforce management tools, and end-to-end baggage tracking technologies.

Speaking on the commencement of operations, Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani, Chief Executive Officer, AISATS, said, “Our entry into Kochi marks a pivotal step in AISATS’ commitment to supporting India’s fast-evolving aviation landscape. Kerala continues to witness strong growth in passenger movement, cargo demand, and global connectivity, and Kochi stands at the centre of this transformation with its strong connectivity, especially with Gulf and Southeast Asian markets. As we begin operations here, our focus is to bring world-class safety, technology, and service excellence to the airport while creating meaningful employment and skilling opportunities for the local workforce. With CIAL, we look forward to building a future-ready operational environment and deliver a superior experience to airlines and passengers alike.”

Mr. S Suhas, Managing Director, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) added, “The core of CIAL’s operations lies in its focus on efficient passenger handling and delivering services on par with international standards. An association with Air India SATS, a company with a proven track record, will further strengthen our mission to achieve operational excellence. This collaboration will contribute to Kerala’s aviation growth, open up new employment opportunities and keep CIAL among India’s most efficient and passenger-friendly airports.”

AISATS’ expansion into Kochi comes at a time when India’s aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with Kerala playing an increasingly strategic role in the Gulf–India–Southeast Asia air corridor. The company is also the first ground handler in India to receive the DGCA Safety Clearance under the newly implemented national framework, reinforcing its leadership in safety governance and quality standards. Known for pioneering innovations such as India’s first Robotic Dry Wash system for aircraft exteriors, the Ground Radar real-time resource allocation platform, and multiple green initiatives including electric GSE and solar-powered boarding ramps, AISATS continues to set benchmarks in sustainable and technologically advanced airport operations. With active operations now across Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Ranchi, Raipur, and Kochi, AISATS serves a wide portfolio of domestic and international airlines.

The Swedish-based Aerowash system uses advanced robotic technology to deliver precise, efficient aircraft exterior cleaning while achieving significant environmental benefits. In just 2,414 aircraft cleans, the service has saved approximately 31,000 tons of CO2 emissions and conserved 4.2 million liters of water. By reducing aerodynamic drag, minimizing ground time, and thoroughly cleaning the aircraft exterior, Aerowash not only enhances aircraft performance but also provides enhanced ergonomic conditions for operators to perform aircraft cleans.

Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO of AISATS, emphasized the company’s progressive vision, stating, “AISATS is proud to partner with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) at BLR Airport, delivering innovative, eco-friendly solutions that align with BIAL’s world-class standards. Through advanced technologies and sustainable practices, we’re redefining operational efficiency and setting new benchmarks in India’s aviation sector.”

Dr. Ashwani Khanna, Founder & Director M/s AeroTech Support Services, stated “We are delighted to collaborate with AISATS to introduce state-of-the-art technology “Aerowash” – A Mechanized Aircraft Exterior Dry Wash solution for airlines and airports. This aircraft exterior cleaning service is the first-of-its-kind in the world. Aerowash is offered by AISATS at multiple airports to Indian carriers and represents a remarkable leap forward in the way aircraft exterior cleaning will be viewed as a sustainability tool in India.”

On behalf of the Team Sweden, Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India, said, “Sweden and India share a robust partnership in innovation and sustainable development. Known for its innovation-driven economy and a strong commitment to sustainability, Sweden is a global leader in fostering sustainable development. The collaboration between AeroTech and Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) serves as a prime example of how Swedish solutions can contribute to driving sustainability in the Indian aviation industry.”

The expansion of Aerowash to Bengaluru marks a significant milestone in AISATS’ commitment to sustainability and innovation. As the first ground handler in India offering this cutting-edge solution, AISATS continues to set new benchmarks, aligning with its broader eco-friendly initiatives. With Aerowash now available at two major airports, airlines at Kempegowda International can enhance efficiency while contributing to a greener future. This expansion multiplies benefits across a wider network and positions AISATS to make an even greater impact on the aviation industry’s sustainability efforts, reinforcing its leadership in eco-conscious airport services.