Air India has achieved a significant milestone in its cargo operations by securing the prestigious Good Distribution Practices (GDP) certification for its pharmaceutical logistics. This recognition places the airline among a select group of carriers in Asia and makes it the first in India to meet this globally recognized benchmark for the secure and compliant transport of temperature-sensitive medical goods.
The certification confirms Air India’s adherence to strict international standards for the safe handling, storage, and movement of pharmaceutical products. In the financial year 2024-25, the airline transported more than 4,000 tonnes of pharmaceutical cargo across global markets, demonstrating its capability and growing prominence in this specialized logistics segment.
“India plays a critical role in the global pharmaceutical supply chain. Achieving this certification underscores our dedication to precision, safety, and care in transporting life-saving medications,” said Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo at Air India. “This marks a significant boost to our logistics offering and signals our readiness to serve global partners with the highest level of assurance.”
Air India’s GDP-certified network spans major domestic hubs—Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Indore, and Goa—and key international gateways, including New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Chicago, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, and Amsterdam. These certifications ensure smooth and compliant delivery of pharmaceutical goods within India and across international destinations.
To enhance its pharmaceutical logistics capabilities, Air India has undertaken a series of strategic initiatives aimed at ensuring the safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive cargo. The airline has partnered with globally certified cargo terminal operators to uphold consistent quality standards across its network. Additionally, it has collaborated with service providers that offer both active and passive temperature-controlled container solutions, allowing for greater flexibility and reliability in managing pharmaceutical shipments.
Air India has also focused on equipping its workforce and infrastructure to handle the unique demands of pharma logistics. Specialized training has been provided to cargo staff to align with international temperature control regulations, reinforcing operational expertise.
The airline has invested in vital equipment such as thermal covers and cool dollies—particularly at key hubs like Delhi airport—to maintain product stability during ground handling. To further support quality assurance, Air India has implemented comprehensive documentation and tracking systems that ensure full traceability and compliance throughout the supply chain.
The certification follows a detailed assessment that included checks on documentation systems, storage conditions, temperature monitoring equipment, hygiene and safety protocols, risk management frameworks, and corrective procedures. This ensures Air India meets global expectations for integrity and transparency in pharma cargo movement.
With a rapidly modernizing fleet and increasing connectivity across continents, Air India is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality pharmaceutical transport. The airline’s investments in infrastructure and compliance reflect India’s broader vision of becoming a central hub for global air cargo. Air India Group consists of the flagship full-service airline Air India and its low-cost regional counterpart, Air India Express.
Founded in 1932 by JRD Tata, Air India returned to the Tata Group in 2022 after decades of government ownership. Today, the Group employs over 30,000 people and operates more than 300 aircraft across 55 domestic and 48 international destinations.
Under its five-year transformation plan, Vihaan.AI, the airline has ordered 570 new aircraft and has successfully merged AirAsia India and Vistara into its existing operations. The Group also launched South Asia’s largest aviation training academy in 2024 and will open a new flying school in 2025.
A greenfield maintenance base is currently under development, scheduled for operation in 2026. Driven by legacy and renewed ambition, Air India is shaping a new chapter in Indian aviation—aiming to become a globally respected airline with world-class service and a uniquely Indian spirit.
