MUMBAI- Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) has been awarded the Good Distribution Practices (GDP) certification for its Cargo business, becoming the first and only Indian carrier to achieve this global standard.
The national carrier transported over 4,000 tonnes of pharmaceuticals in 2024-25, now connecting GDP-certified stations across India including Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), and Hyderabad (HYD) with international gateways like New York (JFK) and London Heathrow (LHR).
Air India GDP Certification
The GDP certification validates Air India’s compliance with international guidelines for the safe distribution of pharmaceuticals.
This achievement positions Air India among a select few Asian carriers meeting global standards for handling temperature-sensitive medical shipments.
Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo at Air India, emphasized the significance of this certification: “India is one of the world’s key exporters of pharmaceutical products, demanding specialised logistics and precision for their transportation. This certification provides a shot in the arm to our expertise and capabilities in this specialised space of logistics, assuring partners globally that we are fully equipped to safeguard the integrity of every shipment.”
Comprehensive Network Coverage
Air India’s GDP certification spans across strategic locations throughout its extensive network. Within India, the certification covers major cargo hubs in:
- Delhi (DEL)
- Mumbai (BOM)
- Hyderabad (HYD)
- Bangalore (BLR)
- Chennai (MAA)
- Ahmedabad (AMD)
- Indore (IDR)
- Goa (GOI)
Internationally, the certificate extends to critical global gateways:
- New York (JFK)
- Newark (EWR)
- Chicago (ORD)
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- Frankfurt (FRA)
- Paris (CDG)
- Amsterdam (AMS)
This comprehensive coverage ensures pharmaceutical shipments maintain their integrity throughout Air India’s domestic and international routes.
Strategic Investments in Pharma
To strengthen its pharmaceutical transportation capabilities, Air India has made targeted investments in infrastructure and processes:
- Partnerships with GDP or CEIV-certified Cargo Terminal Operators at strategic airports
- Collaboration with container solution providers offering both active and passive temperature-controlled solutions
- Specialized training programs for cargo staff on IATA’s Temperature Control Regulations (TCR)
- Procurement of essential equipment, including thermal blankets and a cool dolly at Delhi airport, to minimize temperature deviations
- Implementation of robust quality systems with end-to-end documentation and monitoring processes
The certification was awarded following a rigorous audit process that examined quality manuals, temperature-controlled facilities, documentation systems, and risk management protocols.
With its modernizing fleet and expanding global connectivity, Air India is strategically positioned to meet the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical sector.
This certification represents a significant milestone in Air India’s contribution to India’s ambition of becoming a leading global air cargo hub, particularly for high-value pharmaceutical exports.
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