Kochi: The Onam season has brought a significant surge in cargo exports through Cochin International Airport (CIAL), with 1,678 metric tonnes (MT) of cargo, including 1,173 MT of perishables, expected to be handled through scheduled flight services between August 17 and 23.
Increased movement is being driven largely by the seasonal demand for fresh produce and other commodities associated with the Onam market. Perishable cargo accounts for the bulk of the movement, with consignments comprising bananas, small onions, beans, tury, drumsticks, tindly, fruits, papaya, snake gourd, green mangoes, and banana leaves. The volume is expected to rise further during the peak Onam period, with 250 MT on August 19, 260 MT on August 20, 300 MT each on August 21 and 22, and 200 MT on August 23.
In addition to scheduled passenger flights carrying cargo, CIAL has also witnessed cargo movement through non-scheduled freighter services operated by National Airlines and IndiGo. These freighter services have been operating from Kochi to Middle East sectors, adding further capacity during the Onam season.
The strong seasonal movement reflects the increased demand for fresh produce and other commodities in connection with the Onam market. With perishables forming the bulk of the cargo, the increased use of scheduled services as well as dedicated freighter operations is contributing to a higher volume of cargo exports through CIAL during the festive season.