British Airways World Cargo Strengthens its Position in India (14/04/2005)

BA World Cargo will shortly introduce three weekly main line flights from Bangalore direct to Heathrow and also increase the frequency of main line flights to Chennai from twice to six weekly, later in the year. The carrier is also planning to create mini hubs in Bombay and Delhi, enabling it to process freight from the sub-continent and other Asian countries and is investigating new interline agreements with local airlines to further grow capacity to and from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

BA World Cargo will also expand its pan-Indian trucking service, launched last year, with additional key routes in North India opening soon. The improved service will enable BA World Cargo to offer large lift domestic transportation for both exports and imports, which is vital in a restricted narrow-body, air-freight market.

Kamal Kikani, Commercial Manager India and Nepal, BA World Cargo said: "We are expanding in India because of our ongoing success in the country. This is due to our unparalleled network and specialist handling capabilities and our ability to achieve the correct balance between product sales, weight breaks and destination content. We are confident that we can continue to build on our success in India and strengthen our position in the market still further."

BA World Cargo's plans come at a time when rapid change is creating unprecedented growth and uncertainty in the cargo industry in India. For example, the abolition of multi-fibre garment export quotas to North America and the EU is expected to drive up production as much as 30%, increasing competition and demand.

Ian Barrigan, Area Manager Middle East, Southern Asia & Australasia , BA World Cargo said: "We are facing unique challenges in India, which we are tackling head-on by expanding the reach and flexibility of our network and investing in jobs and infrastructure. Earlier this year we created two new sales positions in India, underlining our commitment to substantial future growth. As a result, we are better positioned to meet the needs of our global customers whilst continuing to nurture strong relationships with local customers."