Global air and travel services provider, dnata, has partnered with logistics technology solutions provider, Speedcargo, to deliver cutting-edge cargo services at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN).

dnata’s Singapore facilities are the first in its global network to implement the technology, with Etihad Cargo becoming the first customer to take advantage.

Speedcargo’s artificial intelligence (AI)-based Cargo Eye and Assemble solutions have been installed at dnata’s facilities to help logistical efficiency, digitisation, and to optimise cargo capacity for Etihad Cargo’s daily flights departing from Singapore.

Cargo Eye uses advanced, vision-based 3D technology to scan and capture a cargo’s exact dimensions, volume data, images, and labels, providing a comprehensive digital record.

This information is then fed into Assemble which creates a digital plan, advising dnata’s cargo handling teams of the optimal method of building a pallet.

Charles Galloway, dnata’s regional chief executive, airport operations – Asia Pacific, said: “dnata is proud to lead the digitisation of cargo processes through innovative technology solutions.

“Working alongside Speedcargo, Cargo Eye and Assemble will enable us to provide Etihad Cargo and its customers with digital audit trails of how their cargo has been handled, improving efficiency and providing a quality end-to-end service. We will continue to create value and enhance our service offerings through digitalisation.”

Dr Krishna Kumar Nallur, chief executive of Speedcargo, said: “This first step towards industry transformation will enable end-to-end optimisation of cargo capacity, from booking to cargo hold.

“Our AI-powered solutions will help Etihad Cargo to maximise capacity across their fleet, and enable dnata Singapore to digitise their cargo handling, thereby improving their productivity and efficiency in operations.”

Thomas Schürmann, head of cargo operations and delivery at Etihad Cargo, said: “With the launch of Speedcargo Technologies’ AI-powered solutions, Etihad Cargo is transforming airfreight operations and optimising cargo capacity as the latest step in the carrier’s digitalisation journey.

“Singapore was selected as the first station to go live with these state-of-the-art AI tools, which will boost efficiency, digitise, and standardise cargo handling across Etihad Cargo’s network and enhance service levels for the carrier’s customers and partners.

“Following successful trials of the AI-powered cargo handling solutions, Etihad Cargo sought out a ground handling partner to deploy Cargo Eye and Assemble, and dnata was a clear choice, being fully aligned with Etihad Cargo’s commitment to utilising cargo-maximising technology to enhance air cargo operations.”

dnata currently serves more than 50 airlines at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) with a team of 1,500 aviation professionals, who handle over 20,000 flights, provide over 3.75 million meals, and move over 250,000 tonnes of cargo annually.

Speedcargo is working with dnata to roll out the service at further global stations.