UPS has expanded its air freight operations from India by nearly doubling its cargo capacity between Delhi and Cologne, Germany—its European Air Hub—to support the growing export needs of Indian businesses.

The service enhancement, operated by a Boeing 747-8 aircraft, will benefit exporters in key sectors including automotive, industrial manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, providing greater access to UPS’s global logistics network. The added flight also strengthens trade connections to the United States, where UPS maintains the most extensive logistics network among global providers.

India’s exports reached record levels in 2024, particularly to the US—its largest export market—driven by strategic policies, increased competitiveness, and wider market access.

The expanded service offers Indian businesses enhanced access to European markets through UPS’s ground network, which includes Saturday Standard delivery across eight major European countries at no additional cost. In 2023–24, India’s merchandise trade with Europe reached $137.41 billion, making the region its largest trading partner.

The expansion aligns with recent trade policy developments, including the India–UK free trade agreement. It is further supported by UPS’s joint venture with InterGlobe Enterprises—MOVIN—which strengthens domestic last-mile delivery capabilities across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities in India.

UPS has also been investing in its infrastructure to support export growth, including the expansion of its Delhi gateway, which has nearly doubled its processing capacity and extended pickup times. Additional infrastructure upgrades include an expanded facility in Bengaluru and a temperature-controlled cross-dock in Hyderabad for healthcare shipments.

Recent service innovations include UPS Global Checkout for cross-border e-commerce and UPS Premier for temperature-sensitive healthcare logistics. The company has also launched its first technology centre in Chennai.

“This additional flight allows us to give Indian businesses of all sizes and industries the fast and reliable service to help them grow and stay competitive. Thanks to our investments we can make logistics a competitive advantage, offering unmatched choice, convenience, and control,” said Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India and Director, MOVIN Express.

“India is a key part of UPS’s international growth strategy. By expanding capacity and making it easier for Indian exporters to diversify product lines and enter new markets throughout Europe and North America, we’re supporting long-term economic growth,” added Abbas Panju, Managing Director, UPS India.

Sanjiv Edward, CEO of GMR Cargo, welcomed the new service at Delhi Airport, while Daniel Carrera, President, UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa & India, said the expansion would create new opportunities for both Indian exporters and European consumers.