KIA launches first dedicated express cargo terminal

The Kempegowda International Airport or Bengaluru International Airport Ltd (BIAL) has launched India's first dedicated Express Cargo Terminal (ECT). The terminal has been launched exclusively for the export and import of international couriers. According to a media report, developed by BIAL, the ECT will house global express courier companies like FedEx Express and DHL Express in the 200,000 sq ft built-to-suit facility. BIAL told the media that the common-user express terminal would be operated by the Express Industry Council of India (EICI) for other courier companies. It added that the common-user terminal would add impetus to the city's already strong e-commerce base. There will be a dedicated space in the terminal for Customs offices, and it will have direct access to both landside and airside. According to BIAL, the facility will enable the airport to process 150,000 metric tonne (mt) annually, taking the Bengaluru Airport's overall annual cargo capacity from the existing 570,000 mt to 720,000 mt. This warehousing facility is a first-of-its-kind at an Indian airport, which has been designed as well as built-to-suit. BIAL also mentioned that this would provide operators with streamlined operational workflows, the provision for expansion in the future. The airport operator further said that mechanised truck docks will allow quicker acceptance and freight delivery. Image Source Also read: Kempegowda Airport to get $2.2 bn investment for infra