NEW DELHI- The Gautam Adani Group is strategically positioning itself to revolutionize India’s air cargo infrastructure by exploring passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion operations.
The ambitious Gautam Adani Freighter plans emerged following the group’s acquisition of Air Works, India’s largest private maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) company, in December through Adani Defence and Aerospace.
Photo: Air Works MRODomestic Air Cargo
A senior Adani official emphasized that the P2F operations align with the group’s long-term strategic vision. The initiative directly addresses the substantial demand for freighters in the country, positioning Adani as a potential game-changer in aviation logistics infrastructure.
The aviation logistics sector presents a compelling opportunity for Adani, with India’s current freighter fleet comprising merely 20-25 operational cargo planes.
Boeing’s global forecast projects a substantial 66% growth in freighter fleets from 2,340 cargo planes in 2023 to 3,900 by 2043, highlighting the significant market potential.
Adani Defence and Aerospace aims to develop comprehensive commissioning capabilities for both narrow and wide-body freighter conversions.
The group’s strategic approach involves leveraging Air Works’ existing infrastructure, which currently operates in 35 cities with major facilities in Hosur, Mumbai (BOM), and Kochi (COK).
Photo- Adani Defence and AerospaceIndustry Capacity Projections
Industry experts like Malcolm D’souza from Jeena and Company emphasize the critical need for dedicated freighter aircraft. Current logistics primarily depend on passenger flight belly capacity, which significantly limits shipment size and weight. Projections suggest a requirement of 80-100 dedicated freighters by 2030, escalating to 120-150 freighters by 2035.
“Undertaking P2F operations is part of the long-term vision of the company. There is a huge need for freighters in the country to serve the growing air cargo and logistics market. We want to come in and address that demand.”
A senior official with knowledge of the plan told ET Infra
The P2F conversion market in India is attracting international attention. Boeing has already established a conversion facility with GMR Aero Technic in Hyderabad, while Israel Aerospace Industries explores similar opportunities.
Adani Defence and Aerospace may potentially replicate this model by partnering with a foreign Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
Photo: Big Twin FreighterAir Cargo Market
India’s air cargo market demonstrates robust growth potential, with projections indicating a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6-8% over the next decade.
Current domestic cargo operators like IndiGo (6E), SpiceXpress (SG), Pradhan Air Express (6P), and Bluedart Aviation (BZ) represent the initial ecosystem for this emerging market segment.
Infrastructure Transformation
The Gautam Adani Freighter plans for P2F conversion operations signal a significant shift in India’s aviation logistics landscape. By addressing the critical shortage of dedicated freighter aircraft, the initiative could substantially enhance domestic and international cargo transportation capabilities.
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Adani Group Acquires Air Works MRO for $47 Million
The post Adani Air Works Plans Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) Conversion Ops appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
