Dubai-based cargo carrier SolitAir has appointed GAC Shipping (India) Private Limited as its cargo sales agent (CSA) in India.

SolitAir says the appointment reflects its commitment to expand its presence and provide comprehensive air cargo solutions in key international markets within the Global South.

GAC Shipping (India) Private Limited is part of the GAC Group, a global provider of shipping, logistics and marine services with more than 300 offices in over 50 countries worldwide.

As SolitAir’s cargo sales agent, GAC will draw on its deep local market knowledge and extensive network of 28 offices nationwide to provide comprehensive sales and marketing services to promote SolitAir’s cargo services in the Indian market.

Hamdi Osman, SolitAir’s founder and chief executive, said: “Our partnership with GAC India marks a significant milestone in SolitAir’s growth strategy. India’s dynamic and rapidly expanding cargo market presents immense opportunities and GAC’s extensive experience, strong presence and commitment to excellence will be instrumental in strengthening our operations in this crucial market.

“We are confident that this collaboration will enable us to better serve our customers and capitalise on the growing trade between India and the UAE, particularly after the recent Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).”

Ravi Ramachandran, managing director at GAC India, said: “Backed by a dedicated team of over 400 professionals, we are committed to offering the same high level of service that GAC is renowned for worldwide. We’re confident this partnership will drive growth for both SolitAir and our customers in India.”

SolitAir currently operates two narrowbody Boeing 737-800 freighters, each with a 23-tonne capacity. A third freighter is expected to join the fleet in April 2024, supporting the company’s expansion plans into India, Bangladesh, key markets in Africa, the Stan countries, and other Middle Eastern hubs.

The airline also aims to connect over 50 cities within the Global South, within a six-hour flying radius from its Dubai World Central (DWC) headquarters.

By the end of 2025, SolitAir plans to add four more aircraft to its fleet and aims for a total of 20 aircraft by 2027. This expansion is well-aligned with the projected increase in trade between India and the UAE, which is expected to exceed $100 billion by 2030.

Operating from a 22,000 sqm facility at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South, SolitAir is equipped to handle a wide range of cargo, including e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, perishables, dangerous goods, vulnerable goods, oversized cargo, and high-value shipments.

READ MORE NEWS: Aero Inspection chosen as CAMO service provider for SolitAir