Coimbatore international airport witnesses sharp decline in cargo bookings as handling charges increase by 80 percent due to rising aviation fuel costs amid Iran-Israel conflict. Monthly cargo operations between Coimbatore and Sharjah significantly affected, particularly non-perishable items shipments.
Coimbatore: The rising cost of aviation fuel has severely impacted cargo handling operations at Coimbatore international airport, with freight charges witnessing an unprecedented 80 percent increase, according to airport sources.
The airport typically handles an average of 60 tons of cargo monthly on the Coimbatore-Sharjah route in the international sector. Of this volume, approximately 50 tons consist of perishable items including food products and vegetables, while the remaining 10 tons comprise industrial materials, garments, and various other products.
Airport sources attribute the steep price escalation to the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel, which have significantly impacted global aviation fuel prices. "The conflict in the Middle East has been the primary catalyst for the dramatic surge in aviation fuel costs," an airport official explained.
The 80 percent hike in freight handling charges has had a substantial impact on cargo bookings at the facility. Non-perishable items have been particularly affected, with bookings for industrial materials and garments witnessing a drastic reduction in recent weeks.
"Cargo operators are reconsidering their shipping options due to the increased costs. While perishable items continue to be transported due to their time-sensitive nature, shippers of non-perishable goods are exploring alternative, more economical routes," the source added.
Airport authorities anticipate that the challenging situation will persist through May, as aviation fuel prices show no signs of stabilizing. The continued volatility in fuel costs is expected to keep cargo handling charges elevated, further affecting booking volumes.
The situation has raised concerns among exporters and importers who rely on the Coimbatore-Sharjah cargo route for their business operations. Industry stakeholders are closely monitoring fuel price trends and hoping for stabilization in the coming months.
The Coimbatore international airport plays a crucial role in facilitating trade between Tamil Nadu and the Gulf region, making the current cargo crisis a matter of concern for the local business community.
The airport typically handles an average of 60 tons of cargo monthly on the Coimbatore-Sharjah route in the international sector. Of this volume, approximately 50 tons consist of perishable items including food products and vegetables, while the remaining 10 tons comprise industrial materials, garments, and various other products.
Airport sources attribute the steep price escalation to the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Iran and Israel, which have significantly impacted global aviation fuel prices. "The conflict in the Middle East has been the primary catalyst for the dramatic surge in aviation fuel costs," an airport official explained.
The 80 percent hike in freight handling charges has had a substantial impact on cargo bookings at the facility. Non-perishable items have been particularly affected, with bookings for industrial materials and garments witnessing a drastic reduction in recent weeks.
"Cargo operators are reconsidering their shipping options due to the increased costs. While perishable items continue to be transported due to their time-sensitive nature, shippers of non-perishable goods are exploring alternative, more economical routes," the source added.
Airport authorities anticipate that the challenging situation will persist through May, as aviation fuel prices show no signs of stabilizing. The continued volatility in fuel costs is expected to keep cargo handling charges elevated, further affecting booking volumes.
The situation has raised concerns among exporters and importers who rely on the Coimbatore-Sharjah cargo route for their business operations. Industry stakeholders are closely monitoring fuel price trends and hoping for stabilization in the coming months.
The Coimbatore international airport plays a crucial role in facilitating trade between Tamil Nadu and the Gulf region, making the current cargo crisis a matter of concern for the local business community.