Cochin Airport plans next-gen cargo village in 25-year expansion drive

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) plans to build a next-generation cargo village as part of its 25-year master plan to enhance cargo handling, storage and supply-chain operations. The facility will emphasise sustainability, digitalisation, security and efficiency. Consultancy firm Jacobs Solutions India has been appointed to prepare a business and development plan at a cost of Rs 7.84 crore, to be completed within 10 months.

The proposed cargo expansion will include domestic and international facilities, a perishable cargo centre, and bonded warehouses. The plan will also examine feasibility of a second runway and potential extension of the existing runway by 100-150 metres to support larger aircraft operations. CIAL currently handles 60 per cent of Kerala's air cargo and recorded a 29 per cent increase in cargo value to Rs 5,647.76 crore in 2025-26, ranking seventh nationally.