Unilode uses Bluetooth to digitise ULD management solutions

March 15, 2018: Unilode has unveiled its plans to accelerate the digital transformation for ULD management solutions by bringing to the market a ULD tracking solution 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.

For the implementation of its digitisation programme, Unilode has teamed up with technology provider OnAsset Intelligence Inc. and a leading ULD manufacturer. 

Unilode customers Cathay Pacific, Air Canada, Cargolux and AirBridgeCargo are among the airlines who are involved in the digitisation programme, which is being rolled out this year. Several shippers will be partaking as well.

Benoît Dumont, Unilode CEO, 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 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."

Adam Crossno, OnAsset Intelligence CEO, said: "I am excited to build on what has already been a very successful cooperation with Unilode Aviation Solutions. As all of us know the primary concern in our industry is safety, and therefore it is essential that digital technologies comply with all safety regulations in our industry.

OnAsset has always focused on full compliance with industry regulations, and we are well known for our patented FlightSafe technology, which has allowed our products to receive approval from the FAA and EASA as well as over 80 global airlines.

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."