India, Feb. 19 -- LUCKNOW On February 18, 1911, a fragile aircraft lifted off from the banks of the Yamuna in Prayagraj (then Allahabad) carrying 6,500 letters, a modest consignment that scripted aviation and postal history. Piloted by French aviator Henri Pequet, the aircraft flew 15km to Naini in 13 minutes, marking the world's first official airmail service. These 13 minutes shrunk the world and India became 'Ground Zero' of global airmail on that day.

What began as an experimental flight during an exhibition has since transformed into a robust, high-volume air logistics system connecting cities across India and overseas after 115 years.

"Today, around 20,000 mail bags are dispatched every month by air from the Lucknow Headquarters R...