Zurich, Switzerland-based Unilode Aviation Solutions, the global provider of outsourced Unit Load Device (ULD) management, have come up with a new plan which in their words will accelerate the digital transformation for ULD management solutions for their customers.
ULD tracking of top importance
They are bringing a new ULD tracking solution onto the market which is based on the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) systems and which they say will be fully embedded into the ULD structure. The new
tracking system will also be backed up by a global interoperable reader infrastructure, the company further states.
In order to achieve a smooth and speedy implementation, Unilode has agreed to team up with OnAssett Intelligence Inc, which is a U.S.-based technology provider. They, along with a yet unnamed
leading ULD manufacturer, will bring the new ULD tracking solution onto the market during the course of this year. Cathay Pacific, AirBridgeCargo, Cargolux and Air Canada, as well as several
global shippers are all closely involved in the rollout of the system.
Unilode’s CEO, Benoit Dumont said: “Unilode Aviation solutions has decided to accelerate the use of modern technology in its ULD management solutions. Since winning the inaugural IATA Air Cargo
Innovation Award we have been working closely with our customers to enhance our digital tracking technology.”
AirBridgeCargo extends for a further five years
One of Unilode’s largest customers, AirBridgeCargo Airlines (ABC), has extended their ULD management contract with Unilode until mid-2023. The Moscow-based carrier which is presently operating
with a fleet of 18 Boeing 747 freighters has a contingent of more than 10,000 ULDs which are supplied from Unilode’s stock of around 120,000 ULDs. Both companies have been partners since 2004 and
this seems to work well - hence the new five year extension of the present contract. ABC had tendered out the contract for a new five year period and after having studied various offers, the
Russian carrier has opted to stay with Unilode.
AirBridgeCargo’s General Director, Sergey Lazarev, stated: “During our tender process we have looked at a number of options and after an in-depth review chose Unilode as a supplier that will
serve our needs in the best possible way.”
John Mc Donagh
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