AirBridgeCargo, Unilode Aviation extend ULD management partnership

Jan 02, 2019: AirBridgeCargo Airlines and Unilode Aviation Solutions have extended their unit load device (ULD) management partnership for the extensive usage of transmitting portable electronic devices (TPEDs) for ULDs - pallets and containers.

The equipment, which is a bluetooth low energy (BLE v.5.0) tracking and sensing device, will be firmly mounted to ULDs supplied and managed by Unilode and carried in the cargo compartments of AirBridgeCargo’s B747 freighter fleet. The monitoring devices will be used to track ULDs, register all environmental parameters, covering such crucial factors as temperature, humidity, illumination and shock actions to guarantee 100 percent transparency of shipment data. In addition, AirBridgeCargo will get accurate information from Unilode about the cargo status and its location, be it in the air or on the ground. 

Both companies have reached agreements on the terms of BLE v. 5.0 usage, with the main work to be completed afterwards. AirBridgeCargo Airlines and Unilode Aviation Solutions are working on the rollout, making sure all the ULDs are properly equipped with BLE v.5.0, Bluetooth readers are installed at the places of cargo movement (warehouse, ground handling premises), and dedicated IT infrastructure is set to capture signals for real-time cargo monitoring.

“We are delighted to see our partnership with Unilode progressing and embracing new areas, such as internet of things (IoT), which will not only facilitate data accuracy but also enhance digital customer experience with the provision of detailed information for each and every shipment. This is especially important for special cargo – pharmaceutical products, oversize and heavy goods, live animals, etc. With the penetration of digitalisation taking place in the air cargo sector, we want to make sure that our customers get the full benefit of it, be it general cargo or other specialist dedicated services,” stated Sergey Lazarev, general director, AirBridgeCargo Airlines.

“AirBridgeCargo is Unilode’s loyal customer since 2004 and we are very pleased to work together in our digital transformation program which will enhance Unilode’s ULD management with the most innovative solutions available in the market. The BLE v.5.0 device is the most cost-effective solution for the transmission of shipment parameters with its primary benefits being improved speed and greater range. Thus, it operates faster and over greater distances than previous versions of Bluetooth. Unilode and AirBridgeCargo have been improving the quality of shipment data, which provides timely and detailed information to all stakeholders in the value chain,” said Benoit Dumont, Unilode CEO.

With this in mind, AirBridgeCargo Airlines has upgraded its online track and trace tool, introduced 24/7 control tower to monitor status of special cargo shipments, and reinforced its team at all levels.