Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is planning to launch a dedicated cargo airline, connecting West Asian destinations.

The Indian airport service provider also said that it is in discussions with international and domestic companies over potential partnerships for the freighter service.

According to CIAL, the freighter service would operate under the brand name Air Kerala.

It also said that it is negotiating with Indian Airlines for freighter conversions.

"The project will supplement our proposed state-of-the-art centre for perishable cargo, which can handle 40,000 tones a year," said Sriram Bharath, managing director, CIAL.

"With this centre and freighter service, we can facilitate the export and import of perishable goods."