Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) Introduces Autonomous Electric Tractors (AETs) for Enhanced Efficiency

Hong Kong handler Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) has introduced Autonomous Electric Tractors (AET) to its terminal in Hong Kong.

The company said the AET’s would help create efficiencies and alleviate the manpower shortage faced by the industry, particularly during the peak season.

The handler said it was the first cargo terminal operator in Hong Kong to deploy AETs.

“AETs offer uninterrupted service for extended hours, providing reliable support and maintaining operational efficiency,” SATS-owned AAT pointed out.

“They are also capable of navigating adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog, ensuring operations continuity.

“In addition, the AETs’ seamless transition between manual and autonomous modes allows for high operational flexibility within dynamic work environments.”

The company said that the AETs, which have a range of 90 km per charge, would also reduce emissions by up to 35% compared with conventional diesel tractors.

AAT chief executive Mike Chew said: “Thanks to the team’s rigorous testing, training and trials conducted over the past eighteen months, we have successfully deployed AETs in our cargo terminals operations, enabling cargo and ULDs towing through various routes and across different levels of the terminal.

“By utilising electric-powered AETs, we are not only reducing carbon footprint but also ensuring resilience and the quality of service we provide to our customers.”

Each AET is equipped with various safety features, including nine high-definition cameras and three lidar sensors for efficient navigation.

“The integration of advanced three-dimensional mapping systems and dGPS technology enable the AETs to effectively manoeuvre through obstacles and follow designated routes throughout the multi-level warehouse,” ATT explained.

The braking system can stop the AETs when obstacles are detected within 10 m to safeguard safety at workplace.

AAT is not the only Hong Kong handler looking to deploy AETs. Hactl also recently announced it would look to introduce the technology later this year to help meet staff shortages faced by the airport sector.