Emirates SkyCargo is deepening its commitment to India's export sector with the addition of new freighter services to Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The expansion, announced as part of the carrier's FY2025-26 strategy, saw the division transport more than 153,000 tonnes of goods from India, underscoring the country's growing importance in global supply chains.
The new freighter routes complement Emirates' existing passenger network, which operates 167 weekly flights from India. Together, they provide Indian exporters with enhanced access to the carrier's global hub in Dubai and its network of over 150 destinations worldwide.
High-value cargo focus
Emirates SkyCargo has carved a niche in moving time-sensitive and high-value commodities. From India, the airline transports over 650 tonnes of pharmaceuticals and more than 600 tonnes of fresh food every week. During the April-to-June 2026 mango season alone, nearly 2,900 tonnes of Indian mangoes were flown to international markets via Dubai.
Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, highlighted India's strategic role in the carrier's operations. "We are enabling Indian exporters to connect quickly and efficiently with international customers by providing rapid and reliable access to global supply chains," he said.
The expansion comes as trade between India and the UAE continues to surge, buoyed by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Non-oil trade between the two nations has grown at an annual rate of 15%, creating sustained demand for air cargo capacity.
Beyond gateway cities
Emirates SkyCargo is also leveraging its road feeder network to extend its reach beyond major metros. This network has facilitated the movement of over 4,500 tonnes of cargo, enabling businesses in secondary cities to tap into global trade lanes without direct air connectivity.
With a fleet of more than 280 aircraft, Emirates SkyCargo serves customers across six continents, offering specialised solutions for sectors ranging from automotive to high-tech electronics. The new freighter services to Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad are expected to further solidify India's position as a key export hub for the airline.
Industry observers note that the move aligns with broader trends in the region, as carriers increasingly target India's rapidly growing air cargo market. The expansion also supports the country's ambitions to become a major player in global manufacturing and pharmaceuticals.
For travel and logistics professionals, the development signals continued investment in India's trade infrastructure. As Emirates expands its fleet and crew, the airline is clearly prioritising markets with high growth potential.
Meanwhile, India's MICE sector is also evolving, with mega venues facing new competitive pressures. The synergy between air cargo growth and business travel could further boost the country's appeal as a global events destination.
Emirates SkyCargo's latest initiative underscores the airline's role as a critical enabler of India's trade ambitions, providing the speed and reliability that modern supply chains demand.
