DHL opens express industry's largest airside facility in India

Located within the Kempegowda International airport, this newly expanded Bengaluru Gateway by DHL Express spans over 112,000 sq. feet, over four times larger than the previous facility.  The additional capacity at the expanded Bengaluru Gateway enables DHL Express to offer 12 to 24 hours faster connection and delivery of imported goods across India, DHL said in a press release.

“As one of the world’s fastest growing economies, India remains a critical node of the global DHL network. The Bengaluru Gateway is part of our €750 million investment to bolster our infrastructure in Asia Pacific and enhance connectivity for countries and businesses. With strong international imports and exports driving the increasing cargo volume in Bengaluru, our new facility supports Bengaluru’s strategy to provide capacity of one million tons at its airport in the next few years,” Ken Lee, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific, said.

“The launch of the largest Express terminal by DHL Express in Bengaluru will support the growth of express logistics in the country. DHL has built a robust system of clearance and this new and expanded facility in Bengaluru will further boost trade and provide great service to trade and nation. The facility will enhance digitisation and improve ease of doing business, both of which are strategic objectives for India,” said Baruah Sailaja Ray, principal DG Systems, CBIC.

“The state-of-the-art facility launched by DHL Express in Bengaluru has been designed keeping the future growth in mind, which is a welcome trend for the industry. This facility will play a leading role in driving growth momentum for our nation as well as facilitate growth in the region. The focus on security and safety as well as the level of automation which reduces physical handling of shipments is commendable,” M Srinivas, chief commissioner of customs, Karnataka, said at the launch.

Using 11 DHL-operated intercontinental freighters, 30 international commercial airlines and 70 domestic flights on a weekly basis, the Bengaluru Gateway at present connects both South and West India to over 220 countries and territories through DHL’s unrivalled global network. An additional six dedicated intercontinental freighters will join the current fleet by November 2021, bringing the total number of aircraft operating through Bengaluru to 17, the release added.

“10 years ago, DHL landed its first freighter in Bengaluru and opened its gateway at the Kempegowda International Airport. Since then, we have seen the international volumes multiply significantly. Our €22 million investment commitment is testament to the growth potential we see in this market. To maintain our market-leading position, we will continually invest ahead of the curve in our infrastructure, technology and people to support the country’s economic growth and help Indian exporters and importers expand their business,” RS Subramanian, SVP and managing director, DHL Express India, said.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RR)