AISATS Expands National Presence, Launches Ground Handling Operations at Cochin International Airport
Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd. (AISATS) has broadened its nationwide footprint with the start of full-scale ground handling operations at Cochin International Airport (CIAL), marking its second station in Kerala and eighth across India.
An initial team of 150 trained professionals is now in place, with plans to scale as traffic grows. The expansion brings advanced technology, globally aligned safety systems, and sustainable handling solutions to one of India’s key international gateways.
AISATS begins by supporting Batik Air and Thai Lion Air, with services available to all domestic and international carriers operating through Kochi. With more than 28 airlines, nearly 60,000 tonnes of cargo, and over 10 million passengers handled in FY24, the airport represents a fast-growing market where demand for efficient, technology-driven ground operations continues to rise. AISATS’ entry introduces next-generation passenger service systems, automated workforce management tools, and end-to-end baggage tracking capabilities.
“Our entry into Kochi marks a pivotal step in AISATS’ commitment to supporting India’s fast-evolving aviation landscape,” said Ramanathan Rajamani, Chief Executive Officer, AISATS. “As we begin operations here, our focus is to bring world-class safety, technology, and service excellence to the airport while creating meaningful employment and skilling opportunities for the local workforce. With CIAL, we look forward to building a future-ready operational environment for airlines and passengers alike.”
CIAL Managing Director S. Suhas added, “The core of CIAL’s operations lies in efficient passenger handling and delivering services on par with international standards. Partnering with Air India SATS strengthens our mission to achieve operational excellence and supports Kerala’s broader aviation growth, while creating new employment opportunities.”
AISATS’ expansion into Kochi comes as India’s aviation sector experiences record growth, with Kerala playing an increasingly important role in the Gulf–India–Southeast Asia corridor. The company recently became the first ground handler in India to receive DGCA Safety Clearance under the country’s new national framework, reinforcing its leadership in safety governance. AISATS also continues to introduce industry innovations, including India’s first robotic dry-wash system, the Ground Radar real-time resource allocation platform, and an expanding portfolio of green initiatives such as electric GSE and solar-powered boarding ramps.
With active operations now spanning Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Ranchi, Raipur, and Kochi, AISATS supports a broad mix of domestic and international airlines. Beyond ground handling, the company is also investing in the next generation of cargo infrastructure through projects such as the AISATS BLR Logistics Park in Bengaluru and the upcoming 87-acre Multi-Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport.