Emirates new service to Cochin in the state of Kerala enhances the airline's online and offline destinations across South India, linked by road feeder services. The flights let Keralites send goods directly to their home state. Cargo customers in India benefit from fast and easy access via Dubai to international markets.
"Cochin exports mainly handicrafts, spices, fish and perishables while personal effects will form the bulk of imports," said cargo general manager Peter Sedgley. "Emirates is operating an Airbus A330 on the sector which offers cargo capacity for 15 to 17 tonnes with a full passenger load. "There is a huge Keralite population throughout the Middle East," Sedgley said. "Previously they had to send their personal effects via Mumbai, Chennai or Hyderabad. Now they can ship direct to Cochin." Emirates now operates direct services to Hyderabad, Chennai and Cochin in South India with a total of 15 non-stop flights weekly. In addition, Emirates SkyCargo operates a bonded trucking system for export cargo linking Chennai, Hyderabad and the offline destination of Bangalore. Plans are in hand to include Cochin on the trucking network. Initially, the trucking system will run to Calicut and Trivandrum, but will gradually be extended. Emirates SkyCargo also has GSA representation in Coimbatore, Trivandrum, Calcutta and Ahmedabad.