Unilode Aviation Solutions (Unilode), OnAsset Intelligence (OnAsset), and Air Canada have announced a collaboration agreement to share data and digital infrastructure to redefine how unit load devices (ULDs) move through the global airfreight network.

By combining Air Canada’s airline operations with OnAsset’s aviation-compliant digital tracking and monitoring solutions and Unilode’s global IoT network and fully digitalised ULD fleet, the three companies intend to create an interoperable offering to seamlessly capture true end-to-end data.

Unilode and OnAsset have established a global network comprising thousands of readers across airports worldwide.

Air Canada and OnAsset have also collaborated to deploy comprehensive network coverage at Air Canada Cargo warehouses and airport locations, and Air Canada’s entire aircraft fleet, which is an industry first. The parties are now working together to share this established infrastructure and the rich data it produces to enable end-to-end visibility for ULDs.

Janet Wallace, managing director of cargo operations and transformation at Air Canada Cargo, said: “Our customers want more control, more transparency, and more confidence in how their cargo is handled. With this combined relationship, we’re delivering a smarter cargo experience from start to finish. This isn’t just an operational improvement – it’s a leap forward for the industry.”

Unilode’s chief executive, Ross Marino, said: “By aligning operational strategy with data intelligence, we’re enabling a smarter, more efficient cargo network. Until today, the ability to track and measure real-time performance allows us to deliver services and data insights that have not been possible until now.”

OnAsset’s chief executive, Adam Crossno, said: “This programme is a proof point for how IoT and aviation can come together to solve complex logistics challenges. This is true innovation and a real example of the power of sharing for the benefit of all. This is not just talk; this is action, and it’s only the beginning of what this combined relationship will deliver to the industry.

“From predictive analytics to environmental tracking, this is the future of air cargo – and with true collaboration and data through IoT, it’s now possible.”

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