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Air India launches India’s first integrated warehouse in Delhi to boost operational efficiency

The warehouse, spanning approximately 54,000 sq. ft., is set to improve the quick turnaround of Air India’s flights operating out of Delhi. Interestingly, this integrated warehouse is the first of its kind for any airline in the country.

Air India, on Friday, launched a massive warehouse facility in Delhi, marking a significant milestone in enhancing its fleet and operational efficiency. The facility, located near Terminal 3 at the Cargo complex of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Air Cargo Logistics division, will store more than 10 lakh engineering spares essential for the maintenance and repair of aircraft and ground support equipment.

Campbell Wilson, CEO and MD of Air India, in a company statement, said, “This world-class facility will not only boost Air India’s operational efficiency but also strengthen India’s aviation ecosystem,” said. He added that the warehouse would provide more proximate access to and better control over aircraft spares, leading to improved punctuality of flights.

The warehouse, spanning approximately 54,000 sq. ft., is set to improve the quick turnaround of Air India’s flights operating out of Delhi. Interestingly, this integrated warehouse is the first of its kind for any airline in the country.

Air India’s warehouse will serve as the cornerstone of the airline’s engineering function, offering a one-stop solution for storing aircraft spares, tools, and ground support equipment. These range from hardware to sophisticated avionics, hydraulics, structural components, pneumatics, and mechanical components.

The warehouse will meet the engineering resource requirements for the maintenance and service of the Air India, Air India Express, and AIX Connect fleet from a centralised location. It integrates 16 smaller locations spread across Delhi and Mumbai into a state-of-the-art facility that will function as a hub for operations throughout India. This consolidation will streamline airline functions and ensure better control over inventory.

The launch of India's first integrated warehouse by Air India in Delhi can create various career opportunities for students and professionals in the field of logistics and supply chain management. Here's how:

1. Warehouse Management: The integrated warehouse will require skilled warehouse managers and supervisors to oversee day-to-day operations, including inventory management, quality control, and safety procedures.

2. Supply Chain Management: Students interested in supply chain management can find opportunities in optimizing the flow of goods and information from suppliers to end customers, which is crucial for airlines like Air India.

3. Logistics and Distribution: Careers in logistics involve planning and executing the efficient movement of goods, and this warehouse will be a vital part of Air India's distribution network.

4. Inventory Control: Specialists in inventory control can help Air India manage and track their inventory efficiently, reducing costs and ensuring smooth operations.

5. IT and Systems Management: The warehouse is likely to rely on sophisticated technology systems for tracking and managing inventory. IT professionals can find opportunities in managing and improving these systems.

6. Safety and Compliance: Career opportunities will also exist in ensuring the warehouse operates safely and in compliance with industry regulations, which can be a critical aspect of airline operations.

7. Transportation and Fleet Management: Professionals skilled in managing transportation and fleets can find roles in ensuring that goods are transported efficiently to and from the warehouse.

8. Customer Service: Air India's warehouse will interact with various stakeholders, including customers. This opens opportunities in customer service, relationship management, and client satisfaction.

9. Quality Control: Quality control professionals can ensure that products stored in the warehouse meet industry and safety standards.

10. Environmental and Sustainability Roles: With an increasing focus on sustainability, there may be opportunities for students interested in sustainable logistics and environmentally responsible warehouse operations.

11. Internships and Apprenticeships: Air India may offer internships and apprenticeships for students to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of warehouse and logistics management.

The integrated warehouse's operation will depend on a variety of skilled professionals, making it a potentially promising area for career growth in the field of logistics and supply chain management for students and professionals alike.