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HOW IOT IS SHAPING AIRFREIGHT TECHNOLOGY


“Operational efficiency is another area where IoT makes a substantial impact”


T


he Internet of Things (IoT) is more than just a buzzword in the modern airfreight industry. It is becoming extremely important to real time airfreight operations for a number of reasons. The IoT refers to a network of interconnected devices that can collect and exchange data with each other over the


internet or intranet. These devices range from everyday household items like refrigerators, thermostats and light bulbs to industrial machinery, wearable health monitors and even smart city infrastructures. In essence, IoT enables these “smart” devices to communicate with


each other, making our lives more convenient, efficient and informed. For example, a smart thermostat can learn your daily routine and adjust the temperature of your home accordingly, potentially saving energy. A smart refrigerator can track the contents inside and notify you when you are running low on milk or other groceries. At its core, the Internet of Things is about creating a seamless,


integrated ecosystem where devices work together to improve the quality of life, increase efficiency and foster innovation. This interconnected world, driven by data and automation, represents a significant shift towards a more intelligent and responsive environment. This is why the IoT is playing a pivotal role in the airfreight industry,


revolutionising how goods are transported and managed. One of the most significant advantages IoT brings is the ability to track and monitor cargo and cargo equipment in real time. This capability ensures that shipments are not only secure but also accounted for at every stage of their journey. With sensors providing continuous updates on the location of goods, as well as environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity and pressure, the transportation of sensitive items like pharmaceuticals and perishable goods becomes more reliable and efficient. Operational efficiency is another area where IoT makes a substantial


impact. By integrating IoT devices, airfreight companies can optimise routing and reduce delays, thus improving turnaround times. The automation of inventory management and asset tracking also reduces the likelihood of manual errors, streamlining the loading and unloading processes and boosting overall productivity. IoT is instrumental in predictive maintenance, a critical aspect of


airfreight operations. Sensors embedded in aircraft, including cargo aircraft, and ground equipment continuously monitor their condition, enabling the prediction of maintenance needs before any failures occur. This proactive approach minimises downtime and prevents unexpected disruptions, ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely. Supply chain visibility is greatly enhanced through IoT, offering a


comprehensive overview of the entire logistics process. This improved visibility aids in better decision-making, enhances coordination among various stakeholders and increases transparency. Real-time data sharing among shippers, carriers and receivers ensures timely updates and facilitates the efficient handling of shipments.


6 Regulatory compliance is another area where IoT proves beneficial.


The precise data logs generated by IoT devices help in meeting stringent regulatory requirements, making inspections and audits more straightforward.


This ensures that airfreight


adhere to international shipping standards without the hassle of manual documentation. Customer satisfaction sees a significant boost due to the enhanced


tracking and monitoring capabilities provided by IoT. Clients can receive accurate and timely updates about their shipments, leading to better customer service, leading to higher levels of trust and satisfaction among customers. Cost savings are an essential benefit of IoT in airfreight. By optimising


operations and maintenance, IoT helps reduce operational expenses. Better utilisation of assets and a decrease in losses from mishandling or delays translate to substantial cost savings for airfreight companies. Security is another critical area improved by IoT. The technology


enhances cargo security by monitoring and alerting for any unauthorised access or tampering. Geofencing technology ensures that shipments follow designated routes and alerts authorities in case of deviations, further securing the transported goods. Companies like IBM have developed solutions that combine blockchain with IoT to enhance the traceability and security of shipments, ensuring that all data related to a shipment is immutable and transparent.


IoT tackles global ULD shortage Two IoT technologies can help airlines maximise the use of their ULDs and simplify return practices by encouraging timely returns: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-enabled ULD tracking and demurrage automation. BLE tracking uses Bluetooth tags affixed to containers or pallets


to automate end-to-end tracking of assets. BLE readers capture the movement of ULDs with attached BLE tags, enabling real-time tracking whether the assets are in the air or on the ground. In addition to location, other sensor-based, condition-related information -such as precise temperature, movement, and humidity - can be monitored for shipments. Tags can also be added to ground service equipment, like dollies, providing full control over a carrier’s equipment. This technology offers real-time visibility into the exact location


of ULDs, identifies who has custody of them at any given time and easily traces asset movements to clarify any discrepancies between stakeholders. However, while BLE tracking can tell you where your assets are, it does not manage when demurrage starts and stops, or when assets should be returned. Companies like Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), one of the world’s


largest air cargo handlers, have enhanced real-time shipment visibility and cost-efficient unit load device (ULD) asset management solutions by deploying Descartes Core Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) readers across its global cargo operations.


companies


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