New Delhi - Air India has announced plans to triple its annual cargo capacity by 2028. CEO of the national carrier, Campbell Wilson says he sees enormous potential in the cargo ecosystem.

 “Our cargo division is implementing a series of strategic measures aimed at fostering growth and strengthening our market presence,” campbell said. “The large passenger belly capacity addition will be augmented with the launch of value-added products and services across the network.”

Wilson says the belly capacity of the Air India fleet will grow significantly over the next few years, given the carrier’s expected influx of new wide-body aircraft to its fleet this year. In addition to pre-existing orders, deliveries from its 470-strong aircraft order in February are expected to start later this year. Wilson says the extra aircraft will add two million tonnes annually (a 300% increase) to Air India’s cargo capacity within five years. Additionally, the CEO adds that “initiatives” including the adoption of new technologies, investments in infrastructure, developing a more integrated cargo market, expanding network reach, and broadening the airline’s capacity to carry diverse products will also help increase Air India’s cargo carrying capacity.