Did Guwahati Airport Just Break a Cargo Handling Record?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The GIAL terminal achieved a record cargo handling of 42.43 MT in one day.
- This surpasses the previous record of 40.43 MT set last year.
- The growth of 4.95 percent reflects increasing efficiency.
- Monthly cargo processed exceeded 844 MT for the first time.
- Improved logistics enhances the Northeast's economic integration.
Guwahati, July 9 (NationPress) The GIAL terminal of Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati achieved an impressive milestone by handling a record-breaking 42.43 metric tonnes (MT) of cargo in a single day on June 28. This remarkable figure surpasses the previous record of 40.43 MT set last year, reflecting a significant growth of 4.95 percent, according to officials.
A representative from GIAL stated that this achievement is part of a larger upward trend, marking the first time the GIAL cargo terminal at LGBIA processed over 844 MT of cargo in a month. This represents an increase of 11.93 percent compared to the previous monthly high of 754 MT recorded in January this year. The surge in cargo tonnage highlights LGBIA’s growing significance as a logistics hub in the northeast region of India, which includes eight states.
“This success is the result of targeted operational improvements, enhanced cargo handling efficiency, and the airport's strategic role in linking northeast India with major domestic markets. The GIAL cargo terminal has shown a consistent upward trend in cargo volumes throughout the first quarter of FY 2025-26, with year-on-year comparisons indicating strong growth,” the spokesperson added.
Key contributors from the northeast region include Agartala and Imphal, while significant destinations across the country encompass Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
The airport has experienced robust import activity from Bengaluru and Jaipur, with flowers being the primary import commodity, thus contributing to the region’s expanding floral trade.
“These accomplishments are not just milestones for LGBIA’s GIAL cargo terminal; they also signify the economic vitality of the northeast region. The increasing cargo movement reflects the confidence of our partners and the region’s growing integration into national supply chains,” said the spokesperson.
With ongoing infrastructure enhancements and a commitment to optimizing operations, LGBIA’s GIAL terminal is poised to further solidify its position as a key cargo gateway for the northeast.