GMR Airports Cargo Growth Sets Records at Delhi and Hyderabad

Summary

GMR Airports reported record first-half cargo volumes at Delhi and Hyderabad during FY2026–27, alongside progress on express freight infrastructure and international partnerships. Delhi handled approximately 630,000 tonnes and Hyderabad 102,000 tonnes, while a FedEx agreement and cooperation with Brussels Airport support the group’s cargo development plans.

Delhi leads first-half throughput

GMR Airports cargo growth gathered momentum during April–September 2026, with Delhi Airport handling approximately 630,000 tonnes, up 12.2% year on year.

September alone contributed around 111,000 tonnes, taking Delhi to its highest monthly and first-half cargo volumes.

Hyderabad Airport also recorded its strongest first-half performance, handling approximately 102,000 tonnes, an increase of 5.8% over the corresponding period a year earlier.

The figures highlight cargo’s growing contribution across the airport portfolio, although the two gateways operate at different scales and serve distinct regional markets.

Financial performance reflects expanding activity

Delhi Airport’s cargo revenue increased by approximately 15% to ₹280 crore in the first half of FY2026–27.

Separately, the Delhi cargo business reported first-half total income of ₹470.7 crore and EBITDA after revenue sharing of ₹136.4 crore.

These figures relate to different reporting entities and should not be added together as separate group revenue streams.

At Hyderabad, the cargo subsidiary reported first-half total income of ₹167.9 crore, EBITDA of ₹70.8 crore and profit after tax of ₹44.5 crore.

The results provide a financial measure alongside physical throughput, showing how cargo handling contributes to the wider airport business.

FedEx agreement advances Delhi Cargo City plans

GMR Cargo and Logistics has entered into a licence agreement with FedEx for an express cargo terminal at Delhi Airport’s Cargo City.

The agreement forms part of the group’s expansion into airport-related businesses, alongside its established airport operations. GMR identified the FedEx arrangement among the key developments accompanying its second-quarter results.

The project builds on FedEx’s August 2026 announcement of a proposed integrated air cargo hub representing a long-term investment of approximately US$150 million.

The planned 230,000-square-foot facility will combine international gateway activities with pickup-and-delivery operations. Its design provides for processing capacity to increase from 600 to 5,000 packages an hour once operational.

Proposed equipment includes automated sorting, X-ray systems and enhanced security infrastructure.

The hub sits within the broader GMR Cargo City development, a 50-acre logistics platform with potential development of approximately 1.5–2 million square feet. These are infrastructure plans and design capacities, rather than additional throughput already recorded in the first-half results.

Hyderabad partnership focuses on European cargo links

Hyderabad Airport’s international cargo strategy includes a memorandum of understanding with Brussels Airport, announced in September 2026.

The airports plan to share knowledge, develop cargo opportunities and strengthen links between their pharmaceutical and life-sciences communities.

Brussels brings specialised pharmaceutical logistics expertise, while Hyderabad serves a major manufacturing, vaccine and research ecosystem.

At the time of the announcement, there was no direct air connection between the airports. The agreement therefore establishes a cooperation framework rather than confirming a new scheduled flight.

The partners intend to identify practical initiatives that can support cargo flows between Belgium and India. For pharmaceutical shippers, the relevant considerations include handling quality, temperature management and dependable connections across the shipment journey.

Newer airports broaden the cargo footprint

Beyond Delhi and Hyderabad, GMR is developing cargo activity at newer gateways.

Bhogapuram Airport, which began commercial operations in August 2026, has a stated annual cargo-handling capacity of 25,000 tonnes. Its cargo business reported ₹30 lakh in second-quarter income, while recording losses during its initial operating period.

Mopa Airport’s cargo business generated ₹1 crore in quarterly income and ₹2.3 crore over the first half.

These smaller operations remain at a different stage from the established hubs. Their installed capacity and early financial results should be distinguished from sustained cargo volumes or mature profitability.

For exporters, forwarders and express operators, the broader development is a combination of higher activity at existing gateways and investment in future facilities. Commercial progress will depend on connecting that infrastructure with airline capacity, efficient terminal processes and reliable inland collection and delivery.

FAQs

How much cargo did Delhi Airport handle?

Approximately 630,000 tonnes during April–September 2026, up 12.2% year on year.

What was Hyderabad’s first-half throughput?

Approximately 102,000 tonnes, an increase of 5.8%.

What does the FedEx project involve?

A proposed integrated express cargo hub at Delhi Airport’s GMR Cargo City.

Does the Brussels agreement establish a direct flight?

No. It creates a framework to develop cooperation and explore stronger cargo connectivity.

What is Bhogapuram Airport’s stated cargo capacity?

25,000 tonnes annually. That is handling capacity, rather than actual throughput.