WEEKLY NEWS


AIR CARG O WEEK


FROM A BONUS TO A MUST HAVE


BY Edward HARDY


DIGITALISATION has transitioned from being a luxury to an absolute necessity in the airfreight industry due to the increasing demands for efficiency, speed, and transparency in logistics. The complexities of global supply chains require instant data


access, real-time tracking, and seamless integration across multiple stakeholders. Traditional manual processes are simply unable to keep up with the pace of modern logistics, where delays and inaccuracies can lead to significant financial losses. Moreover,


the growing need for data-driven


proactive strategy to build future-proof operations. “Tools that offer real-time insights, predictive analytics, and


contactless transactions have become vital, and the post-pandemic environment has pushed the industry to embrace innovation at an unprecedented rate.”


Support the shift Octoloop, CargoFlash’s latest product,


decision-making,


sustainability, and improved customer experiences has made digital solutions indispensable. Digitalisation not only enhances operational efficiency but also provides the agility required to adapt to shifting market dynamics and customer expectations. “The pandemic was a wake-up call


for the airfreight industry, 02


highlighting the critical gaps in manual processes and the need for resilience. With disruptions in supply chains, fluctuating demand, and capacity challenges, technology became the answer to overcoming these hurdles,” Gautam Mandal – CEO – Octoloop.com, stated. “The push toward technological innovation accelerated rapidly as


companies recognised the importance of agility and responsiveness. The shift toward digitalisation was not just a reactive measure but a


is designed to seamlessly


integrate digital processes into airfreight operations, making the transition toward a fully digital ecosystem more accessible. Octoloop acts as both a repository and an omnichannel sales partner for airlines, offering real-time rate management,


instant capacity


bookings, and simplified operations for agents of all sizes. By addressing small and very small freight forwarders in addition to


large-scale customers, Octoloop bridges the gap between traditional sales channels and digital solutions. Additionally, our platform offers advanced


analytics, centralised support, and flexible payment


solutions—all of which are critical as the industry continues to evolve toward a more digital-first approach. “Octoloop is uniquely positioned to address the changing demands


of the airfreight industry through its multi-channel sales approach and seamless integration of digital and physical sales channels,” Mandal explained. “By combining the latest technologies with our nationwide sales


expertise, we offer airlines enhanced visibility and promotion across diverse market segments. Octoloop leverages robust digital tools and on-ground sales tactics to engage customers effectively, whether they are large enterprises or small and very small freight forwarders.”


Up-to-the-minute In the logistics space, time is currency. Real-time booking information is crucial for both customers and carriers because it directly impacts decision-making, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. For customers, real-time data allows them to make informed choices, manage their supply chains more effectively, and ensure timely deliveries. For carriers, real-time information helps optimise capacity utilisation, reduce idle times, and manage dynamic pricing strategies. “With Octoloop, both parties benefit from instant access to booking


details, ensuring that they can respond swiftly to market changes, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance service reliability,” Mandal outlined. “Octoloop is designed to adapt to industry trends, continuously


innovating to stay ahead of market needs. Our platform is not only user-friendly and scalable but also built on principles of transparency and neutrality, ensuring fair transactions for all stakeholders. “Moreover, Octoloop provides comprehensive customer support


and tailored solutions, ensuring smooth operations and quick problem resolution. Our dedicated marketing team drives strong digital campaigns combined with effective physical marketing tactics, offering a balanced approach to reach diverse audiences. “Through these efforts, Octoloop expands market reach, builds


long-term relationships with smaller market players, and offers a trustworthy, results-driven platform that meets the evolving needs of the airfreight industry.”


Did You Know ? BY Michael SALES


HOW HARSH WINTERS LED TO AVIATION DEVELOPMENT The


coastline


Despite Russia’s current status, some of early aviation’s renowned figures were from the nation. Back in the 1900s, the USSR’s 13.7 million square miles landmass with its long winters and lack of communications, cried out for transport infrastructure. The government’s plans, while admitting that the country faced more transport problems than any other country in the world, saw railways as a priority, leaving the postal service to open up the air network. It was Andrei Tupolev who, in the1920s, several


designed passenger and freight


carrying aircraft, including the ANT-6 ANT- 9 tri-engine civilian version of the TB-3 BOMBER, enabling the development of aviation capability.


of the Arctic Circle


from Archangel to the Bering Strait was designated as an official target for air exploitation, with the route designed to serve isolated communities in mining areas as well as scientific and weather stations. The flights had to endure appalling weather conditions with subzero temperatures


as


low as -40c, fog snow and ice. To cope with these chronic conditions, aircraft were equipped with skis or floats. The new joint German-Russian airline


company, Deruluft, flew the Junkers Ju-52 in 1932-33. Dereluft was the first Soviet passenger and freight service company, but it did not have a long history, as relations between Germany and Russia began to deteriorate when the Nazis came to power leading to the company being dissolved on 31st March 1937.


A government project - Dobrolet opened


a regular air service using German Junkers F-13s along a 250-mile route between the cities of Moscow and Nizhnii Novgorod. Services on these flights were poor, but despite these problems, Dobrolet expanded through the decade, extending its service into Siberia and even Outer Mongolia. By the late 1920s, however,


the Bolshevik


government began to view corporations like Dobrolet with great suspicion. on 26th March 1932, the Civil Air Fleet was renamed Aeroflot, which operated about 200 aircraft, including, despite the government's order, the American DC-3, which was license-built in Russia under the name Li-2. During the 1930s, Aeroflot’s most important service was as a freight and mail carrier, even passing the United States in its volume of airfreight.


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ACW 16 SEPTEMBER 2024


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