Transport Corporation of India Ltd (TCI), an integrated logistics and supply chain solutions provider, has joined hands with Flying Whales to introduce next-generation cargo airship technology to India, targeting the transport of heavy and over-dimensional cargo to remote and infrastructure-deficient locations.
The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding was unveiled during the India–France official summit between French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The partnership also holds the potential for establishing a global hub in Tamil Nadu.
Heavy-Lift Capability Without Ground Infrastructure
Flying Whales is developing the LCA60T, a rigid airship designed to transport heavy loads of up to 60 tonnes. Originally conceived to support renewable wood resource extraction in hard-to-access areas, the LCA60T features hover loading and unloading capabilities, enabling operations without conventional ground infrastructure.
This makes it particularly suited for sectors such as defence, energy and power, infrastructure, and construction. The technology is also expected to play a critical role during disaster relief operations and in delivering healthcare supplies to remote regions.
The airship solution enables point-to-point transportation of bulky or heavy cargo at lower cost while reducing terrestrial constraints and maintaining a minimal environmental footprint. In addition to manufacturing the airships, Flying Whales is developing Flying Whales Services, which will operate the fleet globally.
Tamil Nadu as Potential Global Hub
To support its expansion across the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, Flying Whales is advancing discussions to establish its third global hub in Tamil Nadu under its ‘Three Pillars’ strategy. India would host production and operational activities for these regions, positioning the country at the centre of the LCA60T’s industrial and commercial rollout.
The strategic collaboration with TCI is expected to accelerate this ambition within India.
TCI Managing Director Vineet Agarwal said the innovative airship technology would provide low-carbon and efficient logistics solutions to the remotest locations, aligning with the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity.
Flying Whales President Sebastien Bougon described the partnership as a pivotal step in the company’s international expansion. “By combining our LCA60T technology with TCI’s logistical expertise, we are providing a tangible answer to India’s connectivity and ecological transition challenges,” he said.
With this partnership, India could become a key node in the global deployment of sustainable heavy-lift air cargo solutions, redefining logistics access to some of the country’s most challenging terrains.