The Western Region of The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) held its regional meeting on February 3, 2026 at Suba International Hotel, Mumbai, chaired by Mr Rajen Bhatia, Hon. Chairman, along with Mr Shailesh Sharma, Hon. Secretary, and Mr Farokh Hansotia, Hon. Treasurer.
The principal agenda of the meeting was the proposed suspension of cargo freighter operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai, pursuant to a circular issued by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) dated December 11, 2025. The circular outlines construction of Taxiway “E” and pavement works on Apron “G”, which are expected to result in suspension of dedicated freighter operations for a period of up to 10 months.
While ACAAI welcomes and fully supports infrastructure development and safety-related works, members expressed serious concern over the prolonged suspension of freighter operations and its potential impact on exporters, importers, freight forwarders, airlines, custodians, and the overall air cargo ecosystem.
Members discussed several operational and regulatory challenges that may arise during the suspension period, including diversion of freighter and non-scheduled flights to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), handling of split cargo movements, EGM integration under a single Shipping Bill, availability and cost of bonded truck movements between Mumbai Airport and NMIA, Customs clearance procedures, demurrage implications, and the availability of Participating Government Agencies (PGAs) at NMIA.
Members emphasised that clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and advance planning are essential to ensure continuity of operations and minimise disruption to trade. It was also highlighted that if the suspension is not planned and managed effectively, there is a risk that several freighter airlines may shift their operations to alternate hubs such as Bengaluru and Delhi, which could result in a long-term loss of cargo volumes and connectivity for Mumbai.
In view of these concerns, ACAAI Western Region has sought a meeting with MIAL (Adani) to discuss the proposed suspension and to arrive at practical, workable solutions that balance infrastructure development with the operational requirements of the air cargo industry.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks to the Chair and the members, informed a release.