In a significant move for Indian aviation and global logistics, Air India has successfully executed its first airport-to-door pharmaceutical cargo delivery. This milestone initiative highlights the airline’s growing ambition to expand beyond traditional cargo routes and offer integrated logistics solutions on a global scale.
A Strategic Milestone in Air Cargo Services
On May 21, 2025, Air India transported a life-saving pharmaceutical consignment for SUN Pharma from Delhi to Brussels. This operation involved a seamless multimodal transport arrangement that combined air and road logistics to ensure fast and reliable delivery.
The airline flew the temperature-sensitive cargo from Delhi to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport. From there, it transported the shipment via a temperature-controlled Road Feeder Service (RFS) truck to the final destination in Brussels, Belgium.
Ensuring Timely and Controlled Delivery
This first-of-its-kind service demonstrated Air India’s ability to handle critical cargo with utmost precision. The entire journey from the airport in Delhi to the consignee’s warehouse in Brussels was completed in just 36 hours.
Air India maintained strict temperature controls throughout the journey. The cargo, consisting of four lower-deck pallets, required a stable environment between 15°C and 25°C. This temperature range was crucial to preserving the efficacy of the pharmaceutical products.
Leveraging Multimodal Logistics Capabilities
By using a multimodal logistics strategy, Air India efficiently combined its air cargo strengths with dependable road freight capabilities. This approach allowed the airline to extend its services beyond its direct flight destinations, thereby opening new opportunities in global logistics.
Upon reaching Paris, the shipment did not stay idle. The pharmaceutical-grade RFS truck transported it swiftly and safely to Brussels, ensuring all compliance standards were met throughout the process.
Expanding the Cargo Network Beyond Airports
Air India’s airport to door model reflects a major shift in its cargo strategy. Previously focused on airport-to-airport services, the airline now aims to offer more value through comprehensive door-to-door solutions.
Currently, Air India operates more than 5,000 weekly flights covering 45 domestic cities and 43 international destinations across 31 countries. Despite its vast network, this new service demonstrates the airline’s willingness to reach beyond its own routes and build strategic logistics bridges.
Focus on Pharmaceutical Cargo Services
The successful delivery highlights Air India’s capability in managing temperature-sensitive cargo, a crucial requirement in the pharmaceutical sector. In the fiscal year 2024–25, the airline handled more than 4,000 tonnes of pharmaceutical shipments. This figure underscores its growing role in transporting high-value, life-saving products across borders.
The new airport-to-door service allows Air India to tap into the rising demand for integrated pharmaceutical logistics. It also positions the airline as a reliable partner for companies needing safe and timely drug transportation worldwide.
Moving Forward with Confidence
This inaugural door to door cargo shipment stands as a testament to Air India’s operational capabilities and future direction. The airline has signaled its readiness to innovate, adapt, and meet the evolving needs of international logistics.
As the global pharmaceutical market grows, Air India’s timely expansion into temperature-sensitive, multimodal logistics will likely strengthen its position among leading global cargo carriers.
