In a major boost for Indian exporters, global logistics giant UPS has announced a significant expansion of its air freight operations, nearly doubling capacity between Delhi and its European air hub in Cologne, Germany.
The move, driven by rising international demand for Indian goods, sees the deployment of a Boeing 747-8 aircraft on the route — enhancing support for key export sectors including automotive, industrial manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.
UPS said the enhanced air network will improve access to its global logistics infrastructure, enabling faster and more efficient connections not only across Europe but also to the United States via Cologne.
The announcement follows record-breaking export figures for India in 2024, particularly to the US, buoyed by supportive policy initiatives and increasing global competitiveness.
Daniel Carrera, president of UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa & India, said: “Across Europe and worldwide, there is growing demand for high-quality goods from India from a range of sectors.
“This expansion of our global air network will create new opportunities for European consumers, as well as for Indian businesses looking to export.”
In addition to Delhi, UPS operates a second Indian route from Bengaluru to Cologne, currently serviced by a Boeing 747-400 freighter.
With its extensive European ground network, UPS said it will provide Indian firms with stronger connectivity to key markets across the continent.
Notably, UPS also offers Saturday Standard delivery for residential packages at no extra charge in eight major European markets, giving Indian exporters a competitive edge.
The company’s operations in India are supported by MOVIN — a joint venture with InterGlobe Enterprises — which underpins UPS’s domestic logistics capabilities.
MOVIN, designed to serve businesses of all sizes, is expanding its reach across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, helping small and medium-sized enterprises access new markets and scale efficiently.