Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) has initiated ground handling operations at Cochin International Airport, expanding its presence in India’s aviation sector. The company has assigned an initial team of 150 staff to support the airport’s international and domestic carriers. This move coincides with robust growth at CIAL, which now accommodates over 28 airlines, handles nearly 60,000 tonnes of cargo annually, and serves over 10 million passengers in FY24.
Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO of AISATS, highlighted that the new operation reflects the company’s commitment to supporting India’s expanding aviation landscape. He noted Kerala’s vital role in the Gulf–India–Southeast Asia air corridor and emphasized AISATS’s dedication to safety, technology, and service quality. The company’s achievement of DGCA Safety Clearance marks it as the first ground handler in India to attain this certification, reinforcing its focus on operational excellence.
Supporting Kerala’s Connectivity and Infrastructure
The airport’s management expressed confidence that the partnership with AISATS would enhance performance and passenger service, leveraging Kerala’s strategic position and increasing international traffic. Additionally, AISATS continues investments in cargo infrastructure in Bengaluru and Noida, with the upcoming Multi-Modal Cargo Hub expected to bolster logistics capabilities and regional development.
This expansion fits within India’s broader aviation growth, driven by rising passenger numbers and cargo throughput, with Cochin playing a key regional role. The collaboration aims to boost operational efficiency and create employment, thereby contributing to the airport’s goal of offering world-class service and ensuring safety.
