Surat. The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has formally proposed the commencement of international cargo services from Surat Airport to the Airport Authority of India Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company Limited (AAICLAS). The proposal was presented to AAICLAS Chief Executive Officer Ajay Bhardwaj during a meeting held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Samhati in Sarsana. Surat Airport Director A. N. Sharma was also present at the meeting.
As per report, SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi, Honorary Treasurer CA Mitesh Modi, APMC Vice President Harshad Patel, Director Babubhai Sheikh, Group President Sanjeev Gandhi, Aviation Committee Chairman Linesh Shah, and Committee Advisor Manoj Singapuri were among the prominent attendees.
During the meeting, SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi emphasized that key export products from Surat such as diamonds, jewelry, and shrimps are currently routed through Mumbai, causing exporters both time delays and higher logistical costs. He stated that the introduction of direct international cargo flights from Surat would significantly boost exports from the city, helping local industries gain a competitive advantage in the global market.
Representatives from the Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) shared that approximately 1,000 tons of fruits and vegetables are presently exported each month via Mumbai. They expressed readiness to export a similar volume directly from Surat once international cargo operations begin at the local airport.
AAICLAS CEO Ajay Bhardwaj appreciated SGCCI’s initiative and assured a positive approach toward developing Surat Airport’s cargo potential. He added that necessary technical and procedural assessments would be undertaken before implementing the next steps.
Meanwhile, Airport Director A. N. Sharma highlighted Surat Airport’s growing logistical capacity and infrastructure, noting that concrete measures are being taken to establish the systems required for launching international cargo services.
