01 Feb 2025
#1 Feb 2025: India Aviation Newsletter
Air India Appoints General Sales Agent (GSA) for the Philippines
Air India has strengthened its presence in Southeast Asia by appointing Airesources Incorporated as its General Sales Agent (GSA) for passenger services in the Philippines. Airesources will oversee reservations, ticketing, marketing, and passenger sales support in the region, enhancing Air India’s market reach. This partnership is expected to drive brand awareness and passenger engagement, leveraging Air India’s extensive global network. Airesources, Inc. President Ella Sanchez expressed confidence in the collaboration, stating that their expertise and customer-centric approach would further solidify Air India’s foothold in the Philippine market.
BLR Airport Reports Impressive Cargo Growth
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has recorded a remarkable 17% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes, handling 496,227 metric tons (MT) in 2024. The airport’s international cargo segment surged by 23% to 313,981 MT, driven by strong demand for perishables, engineering goods, spare parts, and e-commerce shipments. BLR Airport maintained its position as India’s leading airport for perishable exports for the fourth consecutive year, handling 63,188 MT in FY 2023-24—an 18% rise compared to the previous year. The airport now contributes to 28% of India’s total perishable air cargo and 44% of South India’s share, reinforcing its status as a major logistics hub.
IndiGo Boosts Regional Connectivity with New Mumbai–Jharsuguda Route
IndiGo has announced the launch of daily flights between Mumbai and Jharsuguda, Odisha, beginning 1 March 2025. Often referred to as "Little India" due to its cultural diversity, Jharsuguda is a growing industrial hub. The new route marks IndiGo’s fourth direct connection to Jharsuguda, joining Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata. IndiGo Head of Global Sales, Mr. Vinay Malhotra, highlighted that the Mumbai-Jharsuguda link will enhance regional connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and provide more seamless travel options for passengers. The expansion aligns with IndiGo’s broader strategy of strengthening air connectivity to emerging markets across India.
Acumen’s Take
On Air India’s Expansion in the Philippines
Air India’s appointment of a GSA in the Philippines is a strategic move to solidify its presence in Southeast Asia, a growing aviation market. As travel demand rebounds, expanding sales and marketing efforts in international markets will be crucial for airlines seeking to compete with regional and global carriers. Acumen recognises this as a proactive approach to strengthening Air India’s passenger outreach and brand positioning in the region.
On BLR Airport’s Cargo Growth
The impressive rise in cargo volumes at BLR Airport reflects the growing importance of India’s logistics and airfreight sector. The surge in e-commerce shipments and demand for perishables showcases the airport’s efficiency in handling time-sensitive goods. Acumen sees this as a sign of the increasing reliance on air cargo infrastructure, with BLR Airport playing a pivotal role in supporting trade and supply chains across South Asia.
On IndiGo’s Expansion into Jharsuguda
IndiGo’s expansion into Jharsuguda aligns with the broader trend of airlines tapping into underserved markets to enhance domestic connectivity. By linking the region to Mumbai, a key financial and business hub, IndiGo is facilitating economic development while strengthening its domestic network. Acumen views this move as a smart investment in India’s growing aviation landscape, where regional connectivity remains a critical factor in market expansion.
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