In a significant policy shift, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has relaxed mandatory re-screening rules for transit cargo, aiming to make India a competitive regional air cargo transshipment hub.

The updated guidelines eliminate redundant X-ray checks for transit cargo, provided it remains in a secured Transfer Cargo Security Hold Area (TCSHA) with tight security protocols. This move is expected to reduce handling times, cut costs, and boost express logistics, e-commerce, and long-haul cargo operations.

Industry leaders like EICI and professionals welcomed the reform, calling it critical for aligning India with global standards. The change will support Indian carriers like Air India and IndiGo, aiding India’s target to handle 10 million tonnes of air cargo by 2030.