GMR Aero Cargo & Logistics has launched India’s first airside reefer truck at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, a development aimed at strengthening temperature-controlled cargo handling and enhancing cold-chain reliability for sensitive shipments.
The specialized refrigerated vehicle has been designed to maintain uninterrupted cold-chain conditions during the critical movement of temperature-sensitive cargo between the cargo terminal and aircraft on the airside ramp. By eliminating exposure to external temperatures during transfers, the new system addresses a key challenge faced in the transportation of perishables, pharmaceuticals, and biological products.
The reefer truck is capable of maintaining temperatures between +2°C and +25°C, enabling the safe handling of a wide range of cargo including pharmaceuticals, fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, seafood, dairy products, meat, and other perishable goods requiring precise temperature control.
Built on a Tata Motors chassis with a payload capacity of 10 tonnes, the truck features an internal cargo box measuring 22 ft × 9 ft × 6.6 ft, equipped with advanced polyurethane foam (PUF) insulation. It can accommodate two lower-deck unit load devices (ULDs), improving operational efficiency and reducing the number of trips required during aircraft loading.
Commenting on the development, Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), said the initiative reflects the airport’s commitment to operational excellence and global cargo standards. According to him, the new airside reefer truck ensures uninterrupted cold-chain integrity from the cargo terminal to the aircraft, strengthening Hyderabad’s position as a major hub for pharmaceutical and perishable exports.
Sanjiv Edward, CEO of GMR Aero Cargo & Logistics, added that the introduction of the vehicle represents a pioneering step for cargo operations in Hyderabad and aligns with the company’s focus on delivering customized logistics solutions for customers across its airport network.
The new infrastructure is expected to provide several operational advantages. By minimizing temperature fluctuations during airside transfers, it reduces the risk of product degradation—an important consideration for pharmaceutical manufacturers, life-science companies, and exporters of high-value perishables. The facility also aims to improve handling efficiency and aircraft turnaround times for airline partners.
The truck incorporates several advanced safety and cargo-handling features, including a manual ball deck with guide rollers covering approximately 18.5 square metres, internal safety bollards at dual heights, cargo securing mechanisms, and anti-slip flooring. Thermal strip curtains help minimize temperature loss during loading and unloading operations, while a fresh-air ventilation system maintains air quality within the cargo compartment.
Additional systems such as real-time digital monitoring of temperature and humidity, backup power supply for continuous refrigeration, and integrated fire safety equipment further enhance cargo protection. The vehicle is also equipped with safety accessories including flashing buzzers, rotating beacon lights, LED interior lighting, and radium reflective markings to improve visibility during airside operations.
Industry observers note that such refrigerated airside infrastructure is commonly used at leading global cargo hubs. With India’s pharmaceutical production and agricultural exports continuing to expand, the new facility strengthens Hyderabad’s role as a key gateway for temperature-controlled cargo movement from southern India.