India Post explores dedicated cargo space on Airlines to enhance delivery efficiency
NEW DELHI : The Department of Posts is exploring the possibility of “hard blocking” cargo space on commercial airlines to expedite the domestic transmission of mail and parcels, according to a release. The move is aimed at securing reserved cargo space with firm legal and logistical commitments to ensure time-sensitive deliveries are not delayed due to space constraints.In a move aimed at streamlining its logistics and improving delivery timelines,
India Post is exploring the possibility of securing dedicated cargo space on commercial airlines. The initiative is part of the Department of Posts’ broader efforts to modernise its mail and parcel delivery system and respond to rising demand for faster, more reliable logistics services across the country.
India Post currently relies on a combination of rail, road, and air transport for mail delivery. First-class and Speed Post items are typically routed through commercial passenger airlines — a mutually beneficial arrangement that allows airlines to monetise unused cargo hold space. However, officials pointed out that parcels are occasionally offloaded in favour of other priority cargo when flights are full, resulting in delivery delays.
At present, India Post utilises a multimodal transportation network comprising rail, road, and air to carry mail and parcels. First-Class and Speed Post consignments are often transported via scheduled passenger flights under a cargo-sharing arrangement. This partnership has traditionally allowed India Post to leverage underutilised capacity in aircraft cargo holds, while providing airlines with an additional revenue stream.
However, officials acknowledge that parcels are occasionally offloaded at the last minute in favour of high-priority or more profitable cargo when flights are full. Such instances have led to delays in delivery, particularly for time-sensitive items, undermining service reliability.
By negotiating dedicated space or block bookings on flights, India Post aims to ensure priority treatment of its consignments, reduce transit uncertainties, and enhance customer satisfaction. The proposal is currently under review, with discussions expected to take place with key airline partners and civil aviation authorities in the coming months.
This move aligns with India Post’s long-term strategy to strengthen its parcel and e-commerce logistics capabilities, especially in Tier II and Tier III cities, and to support the government’s vision of faster, digitally enabled public service delivery.