Additional UPS flight boosts India-Europe air cargo capacity

In response to the increasing demand for exports from Indian businesses, UPS has expanded its air network and almost doubled its air freight capacity between Delhi and its European Air Hub in Cologne, Germany, according to an official release from UPS.

UPS has deployed a Boeing 747-8 to support businesses in key sectors such as automotive, industrial manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, which will now benefit from increased air cargo capacity and enhanced connectivity to UPS’s global network.

Furthermore, the flight facilitates connections between Europe and the United States, leveraging UPS's logistics network there. Bolstered by strategic policy initiatives, heightened competitiveness, and expanded market access, India's exports, especially to its primary market, the United States, achieved record highs in 2024, mentions the official release.

In addition to Delhi, UPS also flies to Bengaluru from its European hub, Cologne, with the route currently being served by the Boeing 747-400 freighter.

“Across Europe and worldwide, there is growing demand for high-quality goods from India from a range of sectors. This expansion of our global air network will create new opportunities for European consumers, as well as for Indian businesses looking to export,” says Daniel Carrera, President, UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa & India.

UPS's robust European ground network will give Indian businesses stronger connections to their key markets. UPS uniquely offers Saturday Standard delivery for residential packages at no extra cost in eight major European markets, providing Indian exporters with a distinct competitive edge, the release added.

UPS’s international operations in India are bolstered by MOVIN and its wide-reaching domestic delivery network. A joint venture between UPS and InterGlobe Enterprises, MOVIN supports Indian businesses of all sizes with fast and dependable delivery services tailored to meet evolving customer demands. With an expanding presence across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, MOVIN enables small and medium enterprises across the country to access new markets and scale their reach efficiently.

“This additional flight allows us to give Indian businesses of all sizes and industries the fast and reliable service to help them grow and stay competitive. Thanks to our investments, we can make logistics a competitive advantage, offering unmatched choice, convenience, and control,” says Grégory Goba-Blé, Head of UPS India and Director, MOVIN Express.

UPS has significantly invested in its Indian operations and capabilities to meet increasing demand. These enhancements include nearly doubling the processing capacity at the Delhi gateway, allowing for later pickup cutoff times and more reliable service. Further improvements involve an expanded gateway in Bengaluru and a new temperature-controlled cross-dock facility in Hyderabad, specifically designed for more efficient distribution of healthcare shipments.

“India is a key part of UPS’s international growth strategy. By expanding capacity and making it easier for Indian exporters to diversify product lines and enter new markets throughout Europe and North America, we’re supporting long-term economic growth,’’ says Abbas Panju, Managing Director, UPS India.

“We welcome this new capacity at Delhi Airport and are proud to support UPS in delivering vital global connections for Indian businesses to Europe, the United States, and beyond,” says Sanjiv Edward, CEO, GMR Cargo.

UPS has a total fleet of 292 aircraft, including Airbus A300F4-600, Boeing 747-400F, Boeing 747-8F, Boeing 757-200F, Boeing 767-300F, and MD-11 freighters, according to data by Planespotters.net.