India’s airports saw a 16% year-on-year rise in air cargo handling for June 2026, reaching a record 364,289 tonnes. Growth was led by a 19% surge in international freight, with Delhi remaining the busiest hub. This data reflects strong trade activity, though logistics providers continue to face challenges related to terminal capacity and the need for faster regulatory processes.
India's air freight sector recorded a significant jump in activity during June 2026, with total cargo throughput hitting 364,289 tonnes. According to data from the Airports Authority of India, this represents a 16 per cent increase over the 315,272 tonnes processed in June 2025. The rise in volume confirms a steady demand for air logistics across the country, as international trade continues to play a central role in the sector's performance.
International Trade Leads Growth
International shipments acted as the primary driver for this record performance, accounting for 231,736 tonnes, or nearly 64 per cent of total volume. This segment grew by 19 per cent year-on-year, signaling sustained demand from exporters and importers. Domestic freight also showed healthy expansion, rising 9 per cent to 132,553 tonnes. For the first quarter of fiscal year 2027, covering April through June, total freight handled stood at 1.08 million tonnes, marking a 12 per cent gain compared to the same period in the previous year.
Key Logistics Hubs and Regional Shifts
Delhi International Airport held its position as the busiest cargo hub in the country, processing over one lakh tonnes for the third month in a row. Mumbai maintained the second spot, while Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport continued to strengthen its presence in South India. Bengaluru reported a significant volume lead over Chennai, with a difference of more than 12,200 tonnes in monthly throughput. The growth in Bengaluru is largely attributed to its effective infrastructure and consistent performance in both international and domestic freight handling.
Factors Influencing Demand and Future Risks
Several factors supported this uptick in freight volume. Industry observers noted that a temporary easing of geopolitical tensions in West Asia and a shift away from the Suez Canal route encouraged more businesses to utilize air transport for time-sensitive goods. Additionally, the need to restock depleted inventories and the opening of new export markets for perishable products in Western countries provided a boost to volumes.
While the growth figures are positive, the sector faces ongoing pressure to maintain this momentum. To support long-term expansion, experts emphasize that airports must focus on increasing terminal capacity and improving landside connectivity. Furthermore, the efficiency of regulatory processes and the ability to attract more dedicated freighter aircraft will be essential. Investors tracking the logistics and aviation sectors may monitor whether individual airport operators can successfully manage these capacity constraints and whether the current export demand remains steady in the coming quarters.