Mangalore International air cargo complex will commence operation from May 1

Mangalore, April 23, 2013, DHNS: International Air Cargo Complex at Mangalore International Airport which was inaugurated a month back will start functioning from May 1, said Airport Director J T Radhakrishna. He was speaking at an interactive meeting convened by Kanara Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on promotion and utilization of Air Cargo Complex, at KCCI chamber building here on Tuesday.

Export-Import charges

Radhakrishna said that out of the 23 airports across the country where Air Cargo Complex has been newly established, Mangalore is already ahead with commencing of operation from May 1. “As of now, no payment of customs duty for majority of imports has been enforced. For export, the minimum charge is Rs 125 per consignment and Rs 0.761 per kg. For import, minimum charge per consignment is Rs 135 and Rs 4.75 per kg. Airlines charge, customs charge and other service charges exclude this. For the time being, Air India and Jet Airways are providing cargos in International services. The volume of cargo allowed in each flight is between 1.5 tonne and 2 tonnes,” he explained.

Crosses 10 lakh mark

Airport Director revealed that in the first time of Mangalore Airport history, the passenger traffic has crossed 10 lakh figure. “Last year Airport achieved 20 per cent growth in terms of passengers. If only three flights were operated in 2004, now it is 20”. He expressed hope that within three months, cold storage facility can be started as part of air cargo complex thus paving the way for a big leap in development. Radhakrishna stressed that at Mangalore airport, there is ample scope for development and by the joint effort of all, it can reach new heights in future.

Document processing Mangalore Assistant Commissioner of Customs V Shreenivas Phani said that at the initial stage, bills of entry for cargos should be processed manually. “All documents should be processed at Panambur Custom house. Goods can directly be taken to Airport”. He added that there is a six step procedure for processing; Making entry of bills, appraisal, assessing, pre-auditing, duty payment and examining of goods”. He expressed hope that in near future exclusive cargo flights will fly and arrive at Mangalore airport.

KCCI President Mohammed Ameen presided over. Representatives of Air India and Jet Airways were also present.