Mumbai Airport Soars as India's Mango Export Hub with 9% Growth

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has become a major hub for exporting mangoes by air. Last year, the airport handled 3,624 metric tonnes of the fruit, showing a 9% increase from the previous season. The surge reflects growing global demand for premium varieties like Maharashtra’s Alphonso and Gujarat’s Kesar mangoes. Between March and May this year, Air India transported over 1,000 tonnes of fresh produce, including mangoes. The airline’s cargo division reported 805 tonnes in March, rising to 1,275 tonnes in April and 1,233 tonnes in May. Most of these shipments originated from western India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat.

London Heathrow received the largest share, with 180 tonnes arriving weekly during peak periods. Frankfurt took in around 40 tonnes, while Dubai, Newark, and New York JFK each handled roughly 30 tonnes per week. Air India’s head of cargo, Ramesh Mamidala, credited the smooth transport to strong demand and efficient cold-chain logistics. The airline operates cold-storage and active-container facilities across 14 airports, managing over 400,000 tonnes of cargo annually. These capabilities ensure that perishable goods like mangoes reach international markets in optimal condition.

The rise in mango exports highlights the growing appetite for Indian varieties abroad. With CSMIA’s infrastructure and Air India’s cold-chain systems, shipments are expected to remain steady. Last year’s 9% increase suggests this trend will likely continue in the coming seasons.