Connecting Intelligently For Cargo Mobility
The STAT Trade Times|November 2019
The air freight industry, which has remained traditional in its processes and business models for a very long time has seen a perceptible shift on the back of advances both in operation and information technology in the last few years. For the industry to work more efficiently, the supply chain needs to generate a constant stream of data that can be collected, analysed and used to optimise productivity.
Shalini Nair
Connecting Intelligently For Cargo Mobility

No matter the industry, software is both, a disrupting factor and an innovation enabler. New technologies and changing demands are driving disruption in various sectors. Today, when Frankfurt Airport is operating new robotic concierge services for passengers called 'FRanny' and YAPE, the air cargo sector is leaving no stone unturned to unfold this revolution.

British technology pioneer Kevin Ashton coined the phrase ‘internet of things’ (IoT) in 1999, but it took at least another decade to add a level of digital intelligence to devices that woULD have otherwise been dumb. Effectively merging the digital and physical worlds, several other digital concepts like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data, gradually came into existence enabling devices to communicate real-time data without human interference.

Working on similar lines, the cargo handling division of International Airlines Group, IAG Cargo recently joined hands with Cargo Signal to offer new cargo tracking service. Carly Morris, head of innovation, IAG Cargo, states, “Cargo Signal will provide customers with enhanced end-to-end monitoring and notification features, by using cellular networks to communicate with tracking devices on cargo. The devices transmit real-time data when in cellular range on everything, from location and light through to precise temperature and humidity readings. Accurate temperature monitoring is essential for cold chain logistics such as transporting temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals which require precise temperature conditions in order to remain stable. Light is measured mainly for security purposes, as it can indicate intrusion into a container or a pallet being opened. Cargo Signal is a perfect complement for our premium products such as Constant Climate, Critical and Secure as it offers customers unrivalled visibility over shipments across each step of the supply chain.”

This story is from the November 2019 edition of The STAT Trade Times.

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This story is from the November 2019 edition of The STAT Trade Times.

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