Abstract: The air cargo industry plays a critical role in the global supply chain by ensuring the rapid and secure movement of goods across continents. This report explores the operational framework and management strategies employed in air cargo terminals, focusing on the seamless coordination between logistics, warehousing, security, and regulatory compliance. Air cargo terminals act as vital nodes where freight is received, sorted, stored, and dispatched efficiently, requiring robust infrastructure and advanced technologies such as automated handling systems, real-time tracking, and integrated inventory control. Effective management of these terminals involves meticulous planning, adherence to international standards, collaboration with customs authorities, and optimization of turnaround times to enhance throughput and customer satisfaction. This profile also addresses key challenges including capacity constraints, security threats, and the impact of global disruptions like pandemics. By examining current practices and innovations, the study aims to provide insights into improving the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of air cargo terminal operations. Air cargo terminals serve as essential hubs in the global logistics ecosystem, facilitating the swift movement of high-value and time-sensitive goods across international and domestic routes. This industry profile delves into the structure, function, and operational intricacies of air cargo terminal management. It highlights how air cargo terminals are designed to support the flow of imports, exports, transshipments, and domestic freight, requiring a harmonious integration of infrastructure, manpower, technology, and regulatory frameworks.
The operations within a cargo terminal encompass a wide array of activities, including cargo acceptance, security screening, documentation processing, storage, customs clearance, and ULD (Unit Load Device) build-up and breakdown. Effective management of these processes ensures minimal dwell time, reduced operational costs, and enhanced cargo throughput. In today’s competitive environment, the adoption of automation, digital documentation (eAWB), RFID tagging, and warehouse management systems (WMS) has transformed traditional cargo handling into a tech-driven, data-informed process.
This study further examines the role of key stakeholders such as airlines, freight forwarders, ground handling agents, and customs authorities in achieving seamless coordination. The importance of adhering to international safety and security standards (such as IATA, ICAO, and WCO) is emphasized, particularly in light of increasing threats, compliance requirements, and the need for resilience in the face of disruptions like pandemics or geopolitical crises.
Furthermore, the report discusses strategic aspects such as terminal layout planning, resource allocation, sustainability initiatives (like green logistics), and performance KPIs that drive operational excellence. By analysing real-world challenges—such as congestion, fluctuating cargo volumes, and labour shortages—the study proposes a roadmap for modernizing air cargo terminal operations to meet future demands.

| DOI: 10.17148/IARJSET.2025.12571