Cross-stakeholder organisation Cargo iQ has certified MAB Kargo after a successful audit for providing quality air freight services to and from its global published network.
MAB Kargo reported 95 percent of its shipments in June this year to Cargo iQ in its the first audit and certification for Malaysia, ever since they joined the air cargo community in 2018.
Cargo iQ helps members create a robust quality management framework – part of which is a methodology to plan, control, and measure the movement of shipments in various steps along the way.
After successfully implementing the first-steps in their quality roadmap, members may undergo a rigorous audit and progress to receive the title of Certified Cargo iQ member.
This process aims to see members maintaining high quality through working with Cargo iQ to maintain a monitored road map along the air cargo journey.
“We are extremely excited to join the distinguished list of Cargo iQ certified carriers. The certification stands as a testament of our unwavering commitment to provide seamless critical milestone tracking capabilities of our customers’ shipments throughout our cargo and airline network,” said Mr. Zulkefly Ujang, Head of Operations, MAB Kargo.
“The improved visibility on our service deliveries via CIQ dashboards enables proactive tactical measures to be taken to continuously maintain service consistency for our customers while driving higher performance standards from our handling partners.”
Cargo iQ certification is valid for three years and the criteria include clear objectives, corrective action, continuous improvement, as well as providing shipment planning, visibility and reporting, and aligning to the Master Operating Plan.
“The Cargo iQ certification provides documented proof that a member has put quality at the forefront of their planning and strategy, through building a robust quality management framework that follows our principles,” said Laura Rodriguez, Manager Implementation and Quality Assurance for Cargo iQ.
“We are always very pleased to see members go through the audit process successfully, and even more so when it is their first ever Cargo iQ certification – it is rewarding for all the people that have been part of that process and a recognition of their hard work.”
MMAG Aviation Consortium Sdn Bhd (MAC), the aviation arm of MMAG Holdings Berhad, announces its partnership with the global leader in outsourced Unit Load Device (ULD) management, Unilode Aviation Solutions, enabling MAC to deliver enhanced services to its customers and setting the stage for further potential collaborations including a ULD management center at MAC’s Xpress Cargo Terminal.
The partnership will commence with Unilode providing ULD management to MJets Air Sdn Bhd, the commercial air cargo unit within MAC.
MJets will have access to the world’s largest, pooling network of over 172,000 ULDs. Unilode will provide ULD management and planning, access to Unliode’s ULD repair centers across 50 global airports and its ULD digital suite of services.
With Unilode looking after the airlines’ ULD needs, MJets Air can focus on its core operations, whilst benefiting from Unilode’s best-in-class expertise and cutting-edge digital tracking technology. Additionally, the partnership is exploring the establishment of a dedicated ULD management center within XCT Aviation, which could see the expansion of service capabilities across the region.
Overall, the partnership represents a significant step for both companies’ impressive growth plans. MJets Air’s cargo operation will be significantly enhanced by having its operational capabilities strengthened across its own and Unilode’s networks.
Mr. Woo Kam Weng, Chairman of MAC, highlighting the strategic significance of the initiative, states, “This partnership with Unilode Aviation Solutions marks a transformative step for MAC, enhancing our logistics operations and positioning us at the forefront of the aviation industry in Southeast Asia. Leveraging Unilode’s unmatched expertise in ULD management will not only optimize our operations but also elevate our service offerings to meet the dynamic needs of the market.
“Additionally, MMAG’s strategic partnership with Menzies Aviation enhances our ground-handling capabilities, further demonstrating our commitment to providing comprehensive aviation solutions. Our network is also strengthened by interline partnerships with notable carriers such as MASkargo, Teleport, China Southern Airlines, and ANA, enabling us to offer extensive service connections and operational synergies across global markets.”
Ross Marino, Chief Executive Officer – Unilode, “We are excited and proud to partner with MAC and its subsidiary MJets Air. We are confident that our ULD management solutions and expertise will provide value to MAC and support its ambitious growth plans. We thank MJets Air for their trust in our service solutions and our people.
“We are delighted that MAC has chosen to partner with Unilode for their ULD needs. There is a strong focus on optimising ULD utilisation resulting in cost efficiencies and a reduction in CO2 emissions. MJets will also have access to our digital platform and it suite of services, such as the Customer Portal and the e-ULD APP.
“It’s a great honor for us to be part of the MJets Air ecosystem and their long-term growth plans.
Our partnership with MJets Air strengthens our presence at Kuala Lumpur and the growing market in Southeast Asia”
The strategic initiative was officially inaugurated by the Honorable Mr. Anthony Loke, Minister of Transport of Malaysia, at a well-attended ceremony.
His presence underscored the importance of this innovative collaboration in advancing Malaysia’s aviation infrastructure and capabilities.
Swedavia continues strengthen its position as a global leader in aviation’s decarbonisation with Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Ronneby Airport achieving Level 5, the highest level in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.
With this achievement, four of Swedavia’s ten airports now hold the highest level of climate certification, following Göteborg Landvetter Airport and Malmö Airport which reached Level 5 in December 2023.
Swedavia’s remaining six airports are striving to reach the top certification level by 2026.
“It is very gratifying that with the certification of Arlanda and Ronneby, Swedavia has now four of its ten airports certified at the highest level within the Airport Carbon Accreditation framework. This shows that we continue to lead the way and have chosen to invest in aviation’s necessary climate transition for sustainable air travel. This certification is the result of our long-term efforts, where we have taken a holistic approach to the entire ecosystem of the airports and also involved our partners in the transition. Of the 18 Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 5 airports worldwide, Swedavia has four,” says Jonas Abrahamsson, President and CEO of Swedavia.
“I am thrilled by Swedavia’s accrediting two more airports at Level 5 including Sweden’s largest hub – a truly remarkable accomplishment. By achieving and maintaining a net zero balance for Scope 1 and 2 emissions, and also tackling Scope 3 emissions through strong third-party engagement, Stockholm Arlanda and Ronneby airports are now amongst the 18 pioneers worldwide to reach this level of carbon management. This makes Swedavia standing out as a leading and shining example of how airports are not just committed to net zero, but actually working hard to deliver on this commitment. This does not come as a surprise as Swedavia was already the first airport operator globally to certify all its airports at Neutrality level back in 2010”, says Olivier Jankovec, ACI Europe Director General.
Swedavia sees Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), electric- and hydrogen-powered aircraft and other new eco-friendly technologies as essential elements for the effective decarbonisation of the aviation industry.
Swedavia became fossil-free in its own airport operations at all ten airports as early as 2020, making it the first airport operator in the world to achieve this. By 2025, all ground operations at Swedavia’s airports that are carried out by other operators will also be made fossil-free through the partnership plan that has been developed, which involves all operators at the airports signing an agreement with Swedavia stipulating a focus on phasing out fossil fuels from their operations.
The long-term goal is for domestic flights to be fossil-free by 2030 and for international flights to be fossil-free by 2045, in line with the Swedish aviation industry’s joint roadmap within the framework of Fossil-Free Sweden.
The Level 5 certification of Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Ronneby Airport means that both the largest and the smallest of Swedavia’s airports are now certified at the highest level. The certification of Stockholm Arlanda and Ronneby Airports at Level 5 signifies that Swedavia has successfully taken the final steps to eliminate fossil fuels at all levels at these two airports. Stockholm Arlanda was the first airport within the Airport Carbon Accreditation framework to achieve net zero in 2009.
Swedavia’s ambition within the Airport Carbon Accreditation framework is for three further airports – Kiruna Airport, Visby Airport and Åre Östersund Airport – to be certified to Level 5 in the spring of 2025.
About Swedavias Airport Carbon Accreditation
Dubai Maritime City (DMC) has successfully completed significant infrastructure upgrades, boosting its ship-handling capacity to accommodate 1,000 vessels per year, more than doubling the previous capacity of 400.
The enhancements include retrofitting the ship lifts, introducing new ship cradles, and activating advanced substations and shore power supplies.
These upgrades feature state-of-the-art 6,000-tonne and 3,000-tonne ship lifts, enabling DMC to support more complex shipbuilding and repair projects.
Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO & Managing Director of DP World GCC, stated, “By significantly increasing our vessel handling capacity, the enhanced infrastructure will attract more international shipbuilding and repair companies, stimulating growth in the maritime sector and reinforcing Dubai’s status as a leading destination for maritime excellence.”
Dubai Maritime City, covering 249 hectares, has already docked 296 vessels in 2024, reflecting a 16% increase in dry berth occupancy compared to last year. The recent upgrades are expected to further enhance DMC’s ability to serve maritime customers, with the introduction of four sets of ship cradles designed for vessels up to 6,000 tonnes and 140 metres in length, adding another 100 vessels to its docking capacity.
The upgrades were inaugurated by Ahmed Al Hammadi, Chief Operating Officer of DMC, and Nils Rolland, Chief Operating Officer of Syncrolift, alongside senior management from both organizations. Rolland remarked, “Our partnership with Dubai Maritime City exemplifies our shared commitment to advancing maritime infrastructure and operational excellence, providing DMC with a competitive edge in servicing a larger volume of vessels with greater efficiency.”
In addition to the infrastructure upgrades, DMC has signed a maintenance management service agreement for its ship lifting and transferring facilities, along with an ongoing marine structures rehabilitation project to extend the lifespan of critical components by 15 years. The initiatives align with Dubai’s sustainability goals, ensuring reliable and eco-friendly power solutions for docked vessels while enhancing the city’s position as a premier global maritime hub.
The Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) organized the second Get Airports Ready for Disaster (GARD) Workshop on September 23-27 with support from the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and lead trainer DHL Group. This workshop followed the first held in Cebu in 2014.
Organized in the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the five-day workshop had 38 participants, including representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, airport terminal operators, Office of Civil Defense, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Immigration, local government unit, PNP Aviation Security Group (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
“The GARD Workshop is an essential initiative in fortifying our airport’s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively in the event of a disaster.
By conducting thorough assessments and identifying areas for enhancement in our airport operations, we ensure the public that the Mactan-Cebu International Airport remains resilient and prepared to handle the challenges that come with increased air traffic during crisis situations.
Together with key stakeholders, including government agencies, international partners, and humanitarian organizations, we are taking proactive steps to safeguard the continuity of vital operations here at MCIAA and, ultimately, to help save lives in times of need,” said Julius G. Neri Jr, General Manager and CEO, MCIAA.
“Reflecting on the 2013 Typhoon Yolanda response, when Mactan Cebu Airport became a crucial hub for relief efforts, we recognized the logistical challenges our country faces during disasters. After bringing the GARD program to five airports, including Mactan Cebu, we aim to expand further, building the capacities of more airports and enhancing coordination for future disaster response,” said Guillermo Luz, PDRF Chief Resilience Officer.
As a founding member of GARD, UNDP Philippines Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran, conveyed through UNDP Philippines Programme Analyst Mark Anthony Ramirez, emphasized the ongoing partnership with the PDRF, as well as UNDP’s collaboration with the private sector, including DHL, and its partnership with the WFP in implementing GARD. “We are honored and confident in our ability to support the Philippine Government in enhancing the capabilities of our airport hubs to effectively respond to emergencies and disasters. UNDP is dedicated to strengthening the government’s capacity for early warning, preparedness, and early action in the face of crises,” Dr. Ramachandran noted.
Echoing Dr. Ramachandran’s remarks, WFP Head of Supply Chain Mr. Joao Merencio added, “The GARD initiative goes beyond serving as an operational framework. It is about establishing robust systems and strengthening the capacity to manage disaster response. By assessing, and enhancing existing airport and its personnel capacities, we can collectively ensure that relief reaches affected communities in the most timely and efficient manner possible.”
The workshop focused on airport assessments, identifying areas of improvement, and collaboration with all stakeholders to ensure the smooth running of logistics for the movement of aid during a disaster. It targets to help in developing local know-how on ensuring Mactan-Cebu International Airport is well-equipped to play its role as a logistics hub for critical life-saving supplies, materials and for search-and-rescue personnel. The workshop is conducted by GARD instructors, specially trained logistics and training experts from the DHL Group with the support of trainers from organizations like IFATCA.
“We are pleased to have been able to work with the Mactan-Cebu International Airport under its now Public Private Partnership and do the GARD assessment for the new airport. With Cebu Airport as a strategic hub and spoke in and for the region, it is important that we had this workshop again to help all stakeholders who are party to preparedness and response in the event of a disaster.
Also this year, like for the GARD workshop last December in Paro, Bhutan, we have received outstanding support from the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA), whose participating specialist with decades of experience shared critical insights on managing the air traffic coming into the airport,” said Carl Schelfhaut, Head of the GoHelp Program for Asia Pacific, DHL Group.
Established in 2009, GARD is a public-private partnership between UNDP and DHL Group. It aims to echo the demand for airport preparedness and response capacity of transportation hubs in the event of disasters. The program, launched in 60 airports in 28 countries, includes training personnel in handling the influx of goods and people during calamities, assisting local authorities in relief operations, and assessing the current state of concerned airports. This year, the GARD public-private partnership marks its 15th year of preparing airports for disasters.
dnata, a global leader in air and travel services, is taking significant steps to reduce its environmental impact by converting its Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) fleet at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a fossil-free alternative to diesel.
This initiative is expected to cut carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions by over 2,400 tonnes annually, equivalent to the emissions from more than 530 petrol-powered vehicles over a year.
Alex Doisneau, Managing Director of dnata UK, stated, “We are committed to implementing meaningful initiatives to maximise environmental efficiency. The introduction of biofuel, such as HVO, into our UK operations is another important step in our ongoing journey to reduce our carbon footprint.”
This transition aligns with dnata’s broader goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030 as part of its eight-year sustainability strategy. In addition to HVO, dnata has made substantial investments in advanced infrastructure at its new cargo centres in Manchester and London, featuring carbon reduction technologies like solar PV panels, air-source heat pumps, and electric vehicle charging stations.
Beyond the UK, dnata has implemented biofuel solutions in Australia, The Netherlands, and the UAE, and is exploring further opportunities globally. In the UAE, dnata has transitioned its entire non-electric fleet to biodiesel at Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum – Dubai World Central (DWC). In the financial year 2023-24, dnata reduced CO2e emissions by 2,200 tonnes by utilizing over 1.3 million litres of biofuels.
dnata’s fleet strategy prioritizes phasing out diesel engines in favor of hybrid, electric, or hydrogen alternatives where infrastructure supports it. As a result, 65% of dnata’s fleet in the Netherlands, 44% in Italy, 40% in the UK, and 39% in Switzerland is now electric.
The company has reported substantial improvements in its environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24, achieving a reduction of over 8% in carbon intensity across airport operations, 22% in travel, and 26% in catering services. This data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent environmental verification body.
Established in 1959, dnata provides comprehensive air and travel services across over 30 countries on six continents. In the financial year 2023-24, dnata’s teams managed over 778,000 aircraft turns, transported more than 2.9 million tonnes of cargo, and delivered 123 million meals, reflecting its commitment to safety and quality in service delivery.
On October 22-23, the Blockchain Life 2024 forum in Dubai will bring together over 10,000 participants from 120 countries to share insider information on the eve of Bull Run 2025.
Esteemed speakers include:
Blockchain Life 2024 offers unmatched networking opportunities with a premium audience and behind-the-scenes discussions rich in insights.
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Qantas Freight has joined Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) as its first freight airline, marking a significant expansion for Sydney’s air cargo capabilities.
The new 24-hour Cargo Precinct is expected to increase the city’s air cargo capacity by 33% when it opens in 2026, supporting key supply chains across Australia.
Strategic Location and Job Creation
Located near major logistics centers at Kemps Creek and the Aerotropolis, the Cargo Precinct offers direct access to upgraded Northern Road, with the facility expected to generate up to 2,000 jobs during construction and over 19,000 direct and indirect jobs annually once operational.
Qantas Freight CEO on E-commerce Demand
“This new air freight facility will help us meet growing e-commerce demand while providing quieter and more sustainable operations with our upgraded Airbus A321 and A330 aircraft,” said Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International and Freight.
24-Hour Operations to Enhance Export Opportunities
“Our 24-hour operations and prime east coast location offer unmatched opportunities for farmers, manufacturers, and other exporters to reach global markets,” said WSI CEO Simon Hickey. He highlighted the precinct’s benefits, including streamlined connections between freighters, terminals, and road transport.
Menzies Aviation Joins with Long-Term Lease
Menzies Aviation, handling over two million tonnes of cargo annually, will operate from WSI’s Cargo Precinct for the next two decades. The facility will specialize in pharmaceutical, cool chain, e-commerce, and heavy cargo handling.
Construction Advancements and Infrastructure Funding
Supported by $805.4 million in external financing, WSI is building 75,000 square meters of warehousing space and facilities for eight wide-body aircraft. The construction partner, CPB Acciona Joint Venture, is on schedule for the 2026 opening, aiming to maximize socio-economic benefits for Western Sydney and beyond.
Global Crossing Airlines, also known as GlobalX, has teamed up with digital freight exchange platform Airblox to provide direct, cost-effective cargo services between Chicago O’Hare International Airport and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
This new service, starting October 10, 2024, will operate three times a week, filling a significant market gap for direct containerized transport.
The cargo flights will utilize the Airbus A321 converted freighter, known for its efficient fuel consumption and increased containerized capacity compared to traditional freighters. “We’re excited to offer this high-demand route through the Airblox platform,” said Ryan Goepel, President and CFO of GlobalX. “The A321F freighter delivers 14% more containerized capacity than the B757-200, along with a 19% reduction in fuel consumption. This combination allows us to offer industry-leading pricing and operational efficiency.”
The service will cater to industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, and medical supplies, which heavily rely on consistent freight access to Puerto Rico. Neel Jones Shah, an Airblox board member, noted the importance of the new route: “There’s no freighter capacity between San Juan and Chicago, particularly for express service. We anticipate high demand from the Midwest to Puerto Rico and vice versa, as many businesses need reliable, regular capacity for time-sensitive shipments.”
The partnership marks a significant step for GlobalX, as the airline has faced challenges in growing its cargo business since mid-2023 due to regional freight demand and competition with Boeing 737-800 freighters. By leveraging Airblox’s platform, GlobalX aims to secure medium-term contracts, providing stability in cargo volumes.
Airblox’s innovative marketplace, launched in 2022, allows small and medium businesses to secure future blocks of cargo space through blockchain-based transactions. The platform also facilitates financing and insurance options, making it particularly attractive for freight forwarders needing consistent pricing and capacity on routes like the new Chicago-San Juan service.
“This collaboration enhances our network and offers forwarders greater reliability and efficiency for their cargo needs,” Shah added. Businesses can reserve space for shipments 30 to 120 days in advance, benefiting from the medium-term contract structure that provides predictability and potentially better rates.
As GlobalX positions itself to capitalize on this opportunity, the airline hopes to expand service on this route if demand proves sustainable, offering a valuable service to the airfreight industry and meeting the specific needs of forwarders on this essential route.
Swissport has launched a new Pet Lounge at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, dedicated to unaccompanied pets and designed to enhance animal welfare. Located away from the busy cargo warehouse, the facility offers a tranquil space with water, air conditioning, and calming music to provide a stress-free experience for pets.
The Pet Lounge includes a specialized acceptance area for checking animals and their travel documentation, along with two separate rooms for pets awaiting their flights or their handlers. Khangi Khoza, CEO of Swissport South Africa, emphasized the importance of animal care in their services: “The Swissport Pet Lounge sets a new benchmark in animal handling at an airport in South Africa. We are committed to making the stay for our special travelers as relaxing as possible, benefiting both the animals and our airline and forwarding customers.”
The facility is managed by a trained team that adheres to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Live Animal Regulations, ensuring the highest level of care and safety. Swissport collaborates closely with the South African State Veterinary Service to conduct thorough checks on imported and exported animals. The lounge also provides additional support for pet owners by working with specialized animal handling agents to handle crates, travel documentation, and quarantine regulations.
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