ULD provider Unilode Aviation Solutions intends to implement a ULD tracking system in cooperation with OnAsset Intelligence and a leading ULD manufacturer.
Based on a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tag fully embedded into the structure of the ULDs, which is supported by a global interoperable reader infrastructure, the initiative will be rolled out this year. It involves Unilode customers including Cathay Pacific, Air Canada, Cargolux and AirBridgeCargo as well as several shippers.
Unilode chief executive Benoît Dumont said: “Since winning the inaugural IATA Air Cargo Innovation Award in 2015 we have been working closely with our customers to enhance our digital tracking technology with user input across the end-to-end value chain.
“Unilode does not intend to lock itself, its customers and industry partners into proprietary technologies, and therefore has decided to make public all APIs necessary to capture information from our digitally enabled platforms
“This approach greatly enhances interoperability and flexibility, which is what the industry and our customers are looking for,” Dumont stated.
For OnAsset Intelligence, chief executive Adam Crossno added: “Together with Unilode we have been focusing on making sure the technology is safe, compliant, fit for purpose and technically sound.
“Our common vision is that this technology should be accessible for all stakeholders in the value chain, so intelligent ULDs can be leveraged by airlines, ground handlers, freight forwarders and shippers. This is extremely important because quite often the tracking challenges arise when shipments leave their expected route and are not found where they are expected to be,” Crossno said.
● Formerly known as CHEP Aerospace Solutions, Unilode was rebranded following its acquisition in 2016 by EQT Infrastructure.
