Digital air cargo capacity exchange Airblox has added Sri Lanka-based hybrid physical and virtual cargo carrier Fits Cargo to its marketplace.
Forwarders on the Airblox platform now have access to Fits Cargo’s capacity and charter services.
Fits Cargo is listing lanes out of key hubs such as Colombo (CMB), Chennai (MAA), Malé (MLE) and Dubai (DXB).
“Fits Cargo’s addition to the Airblox platform is a testament to our commitment to delivering excellence and innovation in air cargo logistics,” said Iyman Mustafa, head of business development at Airblox.
“We are thrilled to welcome Fits Cargo, a company that shares our dedication to efficiency and customer-centric solutions.”
Musaab Kassim, director of Fits Cargo, added: “With the prospect of introducing more forwarders to our unique products, we look forward to a fruitful partnership with Airblox as we expand our offerings through their innovative digital platform, enhancing the global reach of forwarders and streamlining the logistics process.”
US airline Pacific Air Cargo has placed its capacity on Airblox in September, while Avianca Cargo joined in August.
Airblox is an online hub for the air cargo market where forwarders can search and negotiate contract rates while accessing financial solutions.
The platform provides freight forwarders with instant access to multiple airlines’ capacities, the ability to book days or months in advance, and financial solutions with payment extension options.
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) has selected technology company SkyCell as its unit load device (ULD) tracking partner.
The partnership will see SkyCell integrate its IoT-driven visibility platform, SkyMind across AFKLMP’s entire ULD fleet.
The SkyMind technology includes advanced readers and tags, to provide airlines with real-time visibility into their entire ULD fleet. This visibility enables airlines to make proactive “informed decisions”, according to a joint AFKLMP and SkyCell press release.
AFKLMP said it will be able to mitigate the manual efforts historically associated with tracing and tracking. This is expected to help increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Adriaan den Heijer, executive vice president Air France-KLM Cargo and managing director Martinair, said: “We’ve decided to invest in the latest asset tracking technology with SkyCell. A new technology solution called SkyMind has been developed.
“Implementing state-of-the-art tracking devices to locate our ULDs will not only enable us to track our assets but will also significantly enhance our operational quality.
“Real-time ULD tracking will enable us to address the issue of ULD losses, whether by ground handling partners or our valued customers, and will ensure seamless movement of cargo.
“With improved ULD management, we can optimize our operations and deliver exceptional service to our air cargo industry partners.”
Nico Ros, chief technology officer and co-founder SkyCell, said: “We’re excited about our partnership with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo as we establish a new standard in technology for Air Cargo’s ULD (Unit Load Device) management.
“This achievement is made possible through our close cooperation with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo and the integration of SkyMind, our IoT-driven visibility platform with specialized ULD management.
“The partnership marks a major transformation in the airline industry towards automation, with a strong focus on efficient ULD management, streamlined dispositioning and improved asset utilization.”
HNA Cargo has partnered with digital booking platform cargo.one to offer freight forwarders in 107 markets access to its air cargo capacity, including routes into China and across Asia Pacific.
This will be the first global digital sales venture for HNA Cargo, agent to China’s fourth-largest airline, HNA Aviation Group. HNA Cargo manages air cargo subsidiaries spanning 11 airlines including Hainan Airlines, Suparna Airlines, Tianjin Air Cargo and Hong Kong Air Cargo.
Forwarders on cargo.one worldwide will have instant digital access to HNA Cargo capacity for imports and exports into China and across the region, as well as global destinations such as London, Paris, Hong Kong, Tel Aviv, Sydney, Tokyo and Bangkok.
“Forwarders will be able to quote and book airline and agent rates quickly and efficiently 24/7 via both interfaces and APIs,” said cargo.one.
As well as offering its first global digital sales, HNA Cargo has become the air logistics group partner that offers the largest number of portfolio airlines on cargo.one.
Qiushi Zheng, vice president of HNA Cargo, commented: “With our network covering more than 300 cities and regions at home and abroad, HNA Cargo holds a strong resource advantage. This digital partnership helps ensure that we benefit fully from our transportation capacity and can achieve optimal distribution.
“As our first global digital sales channel, cargo.one adds value with its high quality booking solutions and delivers us unique access to thousands of freight forwarders of all sizes through its impressive footprint. During our collaboration, cargo.one has impressed our teams with its technical proficiency and strength of purpose to accelerate and optimize our digital sales gains.”
Moritz Claussen, founder and co-chief executive of cargo.one, said: “We are delighted that HNA Group is choosing us to help deliver their digital ambitions. With currently more than 50 digitally connected airlines, no other platform can deliver forwarders access to such superior differentiated supply, whether through our web-based application or API suite.”
In the past 18 months, cargo.one has seen 400% growth in new airline and route combinations going live for digital booking. The company has already digitalised sales for over 50 airline partners.
Barrington Freight has signed up with Breeze’s integrated digital insurance platform.
Use of the platform removes the need to source insurance separately, which Breeze claims reduces costs by avoiding high premiums charged by third-party insurance providers.
“Utilizing Breeze’s AI-driven platform to optimize quote generation, policy binding, and claims processing, Barrington has significantly reduced the amount of time and effort needed to supply accurate cargo protection, countering the inefficiencies of traditional insurance options,” said Breeze.
“The logistics and shipping industry is no stranger to risk and unpredictability, and traditional cargo insurance methods have often proven to be costly and complex, leaving many businesses exposed to financial risks if cargo is damaged, lost, or delayed during transit,” explained Eyal Goldberg, chief executive, Breeze.
“As the logistics industry continues to evolve, making use of digital insurance solutions sets a new industry standard to give shippers and carriers access to simplified, cost-effective, and comprehensive cargo insurance that provides peace of mind and financial security.”
It also reduces the time and effort required for claims processing and compensation.
The Puerto Rico (PR) Life Sciences Air Cargo Community has launched a data and analytics dashboard that provides an overview of the US territory’s air cargo market.
The customized dashboard, developed by Rotate, works by aggregating a range of data sources.
Analysis includes international air cargo imports and exports, as well as air trade demand between PR and the US, and air cargo and mail traffic by airline.
“The dashboard is an eye opener – data is an invaluable tool,” said Community board member David Olan, transportation lead, Puerto Rico operations, Johnson & Johnson.
“The Community must work together to solve challenges, consolidate flights, and find direct flights – this dashboard will enable us to do just that.
“We will use this tool to manage risk, present information to our corporate offices, and drive quality in our Puerto Rico Life Sciences Hub.”
The Community, launched in April, now has over 40 members from across the air cargo supply chain, including pharmaceutical and medical manufacturers, forwarders, airports, airlines, Customs, and representatives of the Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DEDC), which is backing the initiative.
The dashboard and new website are part of a series of Community initiatives, including a training program to help companies achieve the International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s Center of Excellence for Independent Validators certification, and a survey of warehousing facilities and trucking services to populate a new online directory.
Ground handler Menzies Aviation has begun the roll out of its new cargo management system (MACH).
The new system from software firm Wipro has been put into operation at its facility at Bucharest Otopeni Airport (OTP) in Romania and will initially be deployed at 10 locations.
The handler is planning to have implemented the system at all of its global locations by the end of 2024.
“MACH represents a significant enhancement on Menzies’ current cargo management system, boasting a modern user interface (UI) with easy-to-use navigation, making it exceptionally user friendly for all stakeholders,” the handler said.
“Its cloud-based architecture ensures accessibility from anywhere, anytime and on any device, providing real-time insights and data.”
Menzies explained that MACH would integrate with other systems to standardize all processes and improve data accuracy.
Beau Paine, global head of cargo, Menzies Aviation, said: “It is said, technology is best when it brings people together and we are very proud of the accomplishments of our team and Wipro over the last 12 months. We can’t wait to accelerate the implementation plan in continuing to roll out MACH across the wider network in the months to come.”
Menzies will roll out MACH to 10 air cargo locations – Macau in China; Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland in New Zealand; Sangster Intl. and Kingston Jamaica in Jamaica; Ontario, Vancouver, Calgary in Canada; and Amman in Jordan – by the end of the first quarter of 2024.
Natilus and Ameriflight have developed a ground control station for training remote pilots of drones that is anticipated to reduce operational costs for Natilus autonomous aircraft customers.
Designed to seamlessly integrate with the Natilus family of next-generation cargo aircraft, the Natilus Pilot Operations Desk (POD) connects to a cloud network that manages the real-time data filtering and layering for the pilot.
The cloud manages the different data streams including redundant command and control (C2) links, redundant air traffic control (ATC) communications, 4D air traffic situational awareness, meteorological data, relevant airspace advisories, and more to facilitate continuous, real-time operational decision.
Eventually, one operator will be able to monitor up to three Natilus aircraft from the POD, said Natilus. Due to the scalability of the development, pilots will also be able to work from an operations center closer to where they live.
US cargo airline Ameriflight, which in January placed an order for 20 3.8-ton Natilus Kona autonomous feeder cargo aircraft, is carrying out hands-on testing, providing feedback to refine the POD and make it ready for real-world cargo operations.
“Our partnership with Ameriflight closes the loop with our customers, bringing operational requirements into the fold early in the POD development,” said Natilus.
“Ameriflight is proud to partner with Natilus on this state-of-the-art aircraft and the technology that’s being created alongside it. We’re impressed with Natilus’ continued commitment and recognition of the air cargo industry need, directly demonstrated by their hands-on and collaborative approach to receiving feedback on needed capabilities,” said Ameriflight chief executive Alan Rusinowitz.
“We look forward to our continued partnership and ultimately to implementing the Natilus aircraft into our operation to ensure the success of additional business growth opportunities on our horizon.”
Natilus currently has more than $6.8bn in order commitments, and 460+ aircraft in pre-orders, from companies including major airlines and integrators: Ameriflight, Volatus Aerospace, Flexport, Astral, Aurora International, and Dymond.
The company is currently working on construction of a full-scale Kona technology demonstrator, which will have a wingspan of 85 ft.
Natilus is also developing Alisio – a 60-ton payload medium/long range UAV, and Nordes – a 100-ton payload long-range UAV.
Hong Kong cargo handler Hactl will deploy a thermal detection system to provide an early warning for any potential fire hazards as it responds to increasing volumes of hazardous cargo.
The Aerovision Technology Limited (ATL) system monitors the temperature of different cargo materials in real time and quickly identifies any abnormal conditions, triggering alerts.
Hactl said that the system will not only help prevent potential fire hazards but also reduce risks and losses faced by airlines, cargo handling companies, airports and passengers, enhancing the sustainable development of the aviation and logistics industries.
ATL will provide system design, supply, installation, commissioning, training, and maintenance support.
Additionally, the two parties will collaborate closely to explore new technologies and solutions to meet the future development and changing demands of the air cargo industry.
Richard Wu, deputy director general of Civil Aviation Department (CAD), said: “Hong Kong International Airport is one of the busiest cargo and passenger airports in the world, with air cargo volume consistently ranking among the top globally for years.
“CAD shoulders the dual roles of aviation safety promoter and regulator. It has always encouraged the air transport logistics industry to be risk-based and is pleased to see locally invented innovative technology being adopted to further enhance the safety and reliability of air cargo handling in relation to the growth of e-commerce in Hong Kong.
“This is essential for the long-term success of Hong Kong and to maintain Hong Kong International Airport’s leading position as the world’s passenger and cargo hub as well as the busiest air cargo airport.”
Wilson Kwong, Hactl’s chief executive, added: “We are committed to continuous development through the adoption of innovative technologies. This collaboration with ATL will introduce new cargo thermal detection technology to our terminal, further improving the reliability of cargo inspection, contributing to aviation safety and strengthening the operational resilience of our terminal. It also sets a new benchmark for the air cargo industry.”
Avianca Cargo has added a new freighter service between Brazil and the US as it looks to cater for pharma and tech volumes.
The new service will operate once a week between Miami and Florianopolis Airport utilising one of the airline’s A330 freighters.
Florianopolis is Avianca’s sixth destination in Brazil and the airline said that the new service would expand its “offer for the transport of cargo such as technology and pharmaceuticals”.
The carrier pointed out that it had achieved the IATA certifications for pharma and lithium batteries.
Diogo Elias, senior vice president of Avianca Cargo, said: “At Avianca Cargo we are constantly reviewing new opportunities for our customers to offer them greater possibilities for connecting their cargo.
“In this way, we are proud to continue expanding our route network with a sixth destination in Brazil, in addition to the other five we already operate, São Paulo, Campinas, Manaus, Curitiba and Vitoria. With this new route, we will continue strengthening South America’s connectivity with the rest of the world.”
Ricardo Gesse, chief executive of airport operator Zurich Airport Brazil, added: “The logistics market is growing rapidly in Florianopolis and we are attentive to the opportunities it offers to expand our business and also contribute to the development of Santa Catarina.
“The arrival of the third international freighter is another important step in this scenario.”
Etihad Cargo has launched an Instant Offer Rate (IOR) tool to streamline the shipment booking process, provide faster response times and offer improved levels of customer service.
Developed in collaboration with IBS Software, Etihad Cargo’s IOR solution is designed to enable the carrier to boost efficiency by reducing pricing transaction times by up to 70% in its online booking portal.
Utilizing automation, the IOR feature means prices are instantly generated based on five key booking and flight parameters, including density, departure day, direct and indirect flights, flight demand and requested services.
Using this data, the IOR solution will provide the “best available price to customers within a few seconds, offering a seamless, user-friendly booking process”, said Etihad Cargo.
“Since launching Etihad Cargo’s revamped booking portal, the carrier has continued to add features that enhance the customer journey, making it easier and more intuitive for partners and customers to make bookings,” commented Leonard Rodrigues, head of revenue management and network planning at Etihad Cargo.
“By giving portal users instant access to prices based on their unique requirements, partners and customers have all the tools they need to make a booking within seconds and with the confidence their cargo will be transported across Etihad Cargo’s global network safely, securely and reliably at the most competitive price.”
The launch of the IOR solution is the latest feature to be added to Etihad Cargo’s booking portal, following the recent addition of features enabling the booking of cats, dogs and dangerous goods.
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