Cathay Cargo is adjusting its global freighter network by relocating its Mumbai cargo operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport and introducing Astana, Kazakhstanas an intermediate stop for its Asia-Europe freighter services amid ongoing operational challenges in the Middle East.
The cargo division of Cathay Pacific said its regular Mumbai service will move from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to the newly developed Navi Mumbai International Airport while cargo facilities at the existing Mumbai airport undergo refurbishment work. The airline has not confirmed whether the relocation will be temporary or permanent.
According to Tim Wong, General Manager Cargo Service Delivery at Cathay Cargo, the move is part of operational adjustments being implemented to maintain service continuity during the infrastructure upgrade period.
Navi Mumbai International Airport, developed by Adani Airport Holdings and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), began domestic commercial operations on 25 December and is scheduled to commence international services on 15 July. The airport is expected to become a major aviation hub for the Mumbai metropolitan region, providing additional capacity for passenger and cargo operations.
Cathay Cargo Adds Astana as Asia-Europe Freighter Stop
Alongside the Mumbai relocation, Cathay Cargo has introduced Astana, Kazakhstan, as a new intermediate stop for its Asia-Europe freighter network.
The adjustment follows earlier changes to the airline’s operations caused by disruptions in the Middle East. Cathay Cargo had previously routed Asia-Europe freighter services through Dubai, but moved to direct operations after the regional conflict affected network planning and operational flexibility.
While direct flights helped maintain connectivity, the carrier said the change resulted in payload limitations and prompted a search for alternative intermediate points.
In its latest network update, Cathay Cargo confirmed that Astana will serve as the temporary stop for European freighter services, replacing India as the intermediate location during the summer season.
“We are moving the intermediate stops for our European freighters from India to Astana until the end of the summer season while our Dubai freighter operations remain suspended,” Wong said.
The airline added that it remains hopeful of returning to Dubai operations in the medium term as efforts continue towards resolving the regional situation.
Cathay Cargo also confirmed plans to resume its freighter service to Riyadh from 1 August, further expanding its Middle East connectivity while maintaining flexibility across its international network.
Strengthening Network Flexibility
The latest changes highlight the adaptability of global cargo operators as they respond to geopolitical developments, airport infrastructure changes and shifting market requirements.
With Asia-Europe air freight demand continuing to grow, airlines are increasingly adjusting routes, intermediate stops and capacity deployment strategies to maintain reliable cargo flows while managing operational constraints.
Cathay Cargo’s move to Navi Mumbai and the addition of Astana reinforce the carrier’s focus on maintaining network resilience and supporting customers across key trade corridors.
