AISATS expands nationwide presence, commences ground handling at Cochin International Airport with future-ready tech

• Deploys 150 staff for initial operations; plans to scale to up as volumes grow

• Kochi becomes AISATS’ second station in Kerala and eighth airport nationwide, setting new benchmarks in safety, efficiency and green operations

Bengaluru, December 3, 2025. Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd. (AISATS) has expanded its national footprint with the commencement of full-scale ground handling operations at Cochin International Airport. With plans to scale its manpower as traffic grows, AISATS has deployed an initial team of 150 trained professionals at its second station in Kerala and eighth airport across India. The launch brings future-ready technology, globally benchmarked safety systems, and sustainable ground handling solutions to one of India’s most strategically important aviation hubs.

AISATS has launched operations at Cochin International Airport to support its airline customers, starting with Batik Air and Thai Lion Air, and all other international and domestic carriers planning to fly through this key aviation hub. Bringing future-ready technology, globally benchmarked safety systems, and sustainable ground handling solutions, AISATS reinforces its commitment to delivering world-class service. With over 28 airlines operating at the airport, nearly 60,000 tonnes of cargo handled, and more than 10 million passengers recorded in FY24, Kochi represents a high-potential market where the need for efficient, technology-driven, and safety-focused ground operations is rapidly increasing. AISATS’ entry brings globally benchmarked systems and next-generation passenger service platforms, automated workforce management tools, and end-to-end baggage tracking technologies.

Speaking on the commencement of operations, Mr. Ramanathan Rajamani, Chief Executive Officer, AISATS, said, “Our entry into Kochi marks a pivotal step in AISATS’ commitment to supporting India’s fast-evolving aviation landscape. Kerala continues to witness strong growth in passenger movement, cargo demand, and global connectivity, and Kochi stands at the centre of this transformation with its strong connectivity, especially with Gulf and Southeast Asian markets. 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 and deliver a superior experience to airlines and passengers alike.”

Mr. S Suhas, Managing Director, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) added, “The core of CIAL’s operations lies in its focus on efficient passenger handling and delivering services on par with international standards. An association with Air India SATS, a company with a proven track record, will further strengthen our mission to achieve operational excellence. This collaboration will contribute to Kerala’s aviation growth, open up new employment opportunities and keep CIAL among India’s most efficient and passenger-friendly airports.”

AISATS’ expansion into Kochi comes at a time when India’s aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with Kerala playing an increasingly strategic role in the Gulf–India–Southeast Asia air corridor. The company is also the first ground handler in India to receive the DGCA Safety Clearance under the newly implemented national framework, reinforcing its leadership in safety governance and quality standards. Known for pioneering innovations such as India’s first Robotic Dry Wash system for aircraft exteriors, the Ground Radar real-time resource allocation platform, and multiple green initiatives including electric GSE and solar-powered boarding ramps, AISATS continues to set benchmarks in sustainable and technologically advanced airport operations. With active operations now across Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Ranchi, Raipur, and Kochi, AISATS serves a wide portfolio of domestic and international airlines.

Beyond ground handling, the company is investing heavily in building India’s next generation of cargo infrastructure, including the AISATS BLR Logistics Park in Bengaluru and the upcoming 87-acre Multi-Modal Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport, which is poised to become India’s most advanced integrated cargo facility. AISATS remains committed to empowering regional talent through its training academies, prioritizing local hiring, and enabling youth to build long-term careers across ground services, airside operations, and cargo logistics.