Pune Airport Records Historic 7,300% Cargo Growth with New Fruit and Meat Exports
In a remarkable development for Maharashtra's aviation sector, Pune International Airport has witnessed an unprecedented surge in international cargo exports, with volumes skyrocketing by an astonishing 7,300% within just three months. This dramatic growth has been fueled exclusively by the export of two specific commodities: pomegranates and sheep mutton to destinations in the United Arab Emirates.
From Humble Beginnings to Record-Breaking Figures
The transformative journey began in November 2025 when the first consignments of pomegranates were dispatched to Dubai aboard flights operated by SpiceJet and IndiGo. This initiative marked the beginning of what would become a significant export channel for agricultural produce from the region.
The momentum accelerated rapidly the following month when Air India Express commenced regular shipments of sheep mutton from Pune to Abu Dhabi, operating three times weekly. This dual-commodity export drive propelled international cargo figures from a modest 0.50 tonne in September 2025 to an impressive 37 metric tonnes by December 2025 – establishing a new all-time record for the airport.
Supply Chain Dynamics and Operational Challenges
Pradeep Kumar, Joint General Manager (Cargo) at Pune airport, provided insights into the supply chain mechanics behind this export boom. "While the meat is being brought in from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar via an exporter, the fruit is being procured by another exporter from Baramati farmers. At present, only these two items are being exported," Kumar explained, highlighting the specialized nature of current operations.
The official confirmed that December 2025's 37-tonne export achievement represents the highest international cargo volume ever recorded at Pune airport. He contrasted this with previous years' exports, noting: "Last year, we exported hapus (Alphonso) mangoes to Singapore, some vegetables to Dubai, and some sweetmeat items also to Dubai. However, the Singapore sector was closed down by Air India last year. Now, pomegranates are being exported for the first time ever."
Overcoming Initial Operational Hurdles
The novel export of sheep carcasses presented unexpected challenges for airport ground staff. Kumar revealed: "The meat is packed in muslin cloth, which gets stained with blood and has other issues. Initially, the loaders objected to this. Now, things have settled down."
Airport authorities are proactively addressing these concerns, with sources indicating that a meeting involving all stakeholders, including airline representatives, is scheduled to find permanent solutions to packaging and handling issues. Another airport official emphasized the importance of this new trade route: "International export of meat is happening from the airport for the first time, and we want it to continue without hassles. If there are any issues pending, they will be sorted out."
Broader Cargo Context and Future Expansion Plans
The recent export surge forms part of a larger growth story for Pune airport's cargo operations. In the previous year, the facility handled 123.50 tonnes of international cargo alongside 49,595.20 tonnes of domestic shipments, representing an overall increase of approximately 24% compared to 2024 figures.
Traditionally, international cargo movements from Pune have centered on auto parts and miscellaneous items, including some perishable goods. However, the current fruit and meat exports have created new possibilities.
Kumar acknowledged the capacity constraints created by this success: "We are looking for more exporters to enhance international cargo exports. However, all international flights right now are going full with these items and no space is available."
Untapped Potential and Infrastructure Opportunities
Another airport official pointed to significant untapped potential, revealing that Pune still has 15 prime flight slots that remain unused. "Airport authorities have been speaking to all airlines, encouraging them to begin new flights. There is a chance that the Pune-Singapore flight can also resume, resulting in an increase in international cargo exports," the official stated optimistically.
This suggests that with additional flight operations, the airport could accommodate even greater cargo volumes, potentially diversifying beyond the current two-commodity focus that has already delivered such remarkable results.
