In a bold step towards digital transformation, BLR Cargo at Kempegowda International Airport has partnered with Shell India. Together, they have launched a comprehensive Smart Management System that promises to elevate cargo operations to new heights. This system integrates cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to streamline cargo movement, enhance efficiency, and reduce turnaround times significantly.
The collaboration underscores the growing importance of innovation and collaboration in the logistics sector, particularly in the rapidly expanding Indian air cargo market. As India strengthens its position as a global logistics hub, initiatives like this mark the beginning of a smarter, more efficient era in air cargo operations.
Digitization Through the Airport Cargo Community System (ACS)
At the heart of this transformation lies the Airport Cargo Community System (ACS), a digital platform that connects all cargo stakeholders seamlessly. It brings together shippers, customs brokers, freight forwarders, airlines, and transporters on a single interface, promoting paperless and transparent operations.
As a result of this digital initiative, BLR Cargo has increased its handling capacity by 20%, a significant leap in operational capability. Moreover, the system has generated monthly savings of around INR 317,000 simply by reducing paper usage across cargo operations.
Additionally, ACS has accelerated document exchange and shipment visibility, reducing cargo dwell times and strengthening supply chain agility. This strategic move reflects BLR Cargo’s commitment to building an ecosystem where every stakeholder collaborates digitally and efficiently.
Shell India Drives Innovation with India’s First On-Airport Truck Facility
Shell India, a key partner in this initiative, has introduced the Automated Truck Management Facility (ATMF), the first of its kind in India. Located on-site at BLR Airport, ATMF offers 250 dedicated truck parking bays and uses a semi-automated system to manage truck traffic.
With this development, the system ensures efficient vehicle scheduling, minimizes terminal congestion, and drastically cuts wait times for cargo trucks. Furthermore, the ATMF improves overall cargo throughput, offering faster turnarounds and higher productivity for logistics partners operating at the airport.
By enabling smoother vehicle flow, the ATMF also supports the airport’s sustainability goals by lowering idle time and reducing carbon emissions.
Smart Monitoring Through IoT Technology Ensures Cargo Integrity
Beyond digitization and vehicle scheduling, the Smart Management System also integrates Internet of Things (IoT) technology for real-time cargo monitoring. This feature is especially critical for handling temperature-sensitive goods such as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and perishable foods.
Using IoT-enabled sensors, the system tracks cargo conditions throughout the airport’s supply chain network, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance. In addition, it allows stakeholders to receive timely alerts and take proactive steps if any shipment deviates from required parameters.
Through this smart monitoring, BLR Cargo reinforces its position as a trusted partner for critical shipments, both in domestic and international sectors.
Remarkable Growth in Cargo Volume Reflects System Efficiency
Thanks to these strategic enhancements, BLR Cargo has experienced a steady rise in cargo throughput. In the financial year 2024, the airport handled 439,524 metric tonnes of cargo, reflecting a 7.1% year-on-year increase.
Domestic cargo volumes surged by 13%, while international cargo movements rose by 4%, signaling a balanced and strong performance across the board. These numbers clearly reflect the operational advantages delivered by the Smart Management System and its ecosystem of digital and physical infrastructure.
Future Expansion Plans Aim to Strengthen Logistics Ecosystem
Looking ahead, BLR Airport plans to launch a dedicated domestic cargo terminal and a Multi-Modal Logistics Park (MMLP) in 2025. These expansions will boost cargo capacity and significantly reduce processing times, aiming for a 20% efficiency gain.
With these efforts, BLR Cargo aspires to position itself as South India’s leading cargo hub, offering unmatched infrastructure, speed, and reliability.
Conclusion: A New Era of Cargo Management Begins at BLR
With its Smart Management System, BLR Cargo has set a benchmark for airport logistics in India by leveraging technology and sustainable practices. Its partnership with Shell India demonstrates how collaboration can drive innovation and create smarter logistics ecosystems.
This initiative not only enhances operational efficiency but also paves the way for a greener and more connected cargo future.
