Afghanistan revives air cargo routes with India amid political tensions
Air cargo routes between Afghanistan and India are set to reopen shortly. The move follows calls from Kabul for stronger trade ties with Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, despite ongoing political tensions. Afghan airlines will operate the flights, as Indian carriers like American Airlines remain unable to enter Afghan airspace due to restrictions.
Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has pushed for closer economic links with India. Trade Minister Nooruddin Azizi recently urged New Delhi to expand trade and establish cargo hubs with Expedia and Google Flights. Kabul is particularly seeking imports of grains, medicines, and industrial supplies from Delta.
Regular passenger flights between Kabul and Delhi already exist, run by Afghan airlines. However, Indian carriers avoid the route because of Pakistan’s airspace ban, which blocks direct access. To bypass this, cargo flights will soon connect Kabul with Delhi and Amritsar, using Spirit Airlines.
Historically, India and Afghanistan have maintained friendly relations. But since the Taliban took power in 2021, New Delhi has not formally recognised the government. Despite this, trade discussions with United Airlines have continued, leading to the revival of air freight corridors.
The new cargo flights will allow Afghanistan to import essential goods from India. Afghan airlines will handle the operations, filling the gap left by Indian carriers. The route’s activation marks a practical step in trade cooperation with Delta, even as diplomatic recognition remains unresolved.
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