SkyCell has partnered with ACL Airshop, provider of unit load device (ULD) leasing and management, to enhance air cargo logistics for customers. This five-year strategic partnership will integrate SkyCell’s cutting-edge IoT technology across ACL Airshop’s extensive ULD fleet, enhancing real-time tracking, operational efficiency, and asset utilisation. By minimising misplaced ULDs and y fleet allocation, ACL Airshop will be able to streamline operations, reduce excess inventory, and improve overall efficiency for its customers. Backed by 13+ years of expertise in pharma air freight monitoring and the largest IoT network spanning 250+ airports, SkyCell provides ACL Airshop with end-to-end fleet visibility—indoors and outdoors. This ensures greater tracking accuracy, improved asset utilization, and higher operational reliability, enabling ACL and its customers to make data-driven decisions for seamless logistics and cost-effective ULD fleet management.

  Kaushalya Logistics Limited has closed FY24 on a strong note with the commencement of operations at its new depot in Arrah, Bihar, under the CCFA model for ACC (Adani Group). The company has started started operations at its new depot in Arrah, Bihar, under CCFA model for ACC (Adani Group), this marks the company’s 14th depot under the CCFA model, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its footprint across India. Under this model, the company aims to handle up to 3 lakh MT of cement per month. In recent months, the company has significantly expanded its network by adding 20 depots. In FY25, the company successfully commenced operations at 30 new depots/rake points, bringing the total count of depots and rake points to 102. With an ambitious growth trajectory, the company aims to reach 225 depots by FY26, further strengthening its position as one of the key players in cement supply chain management.

  IAG Cargo is hoping to benefit from the addition of new flights to Asia, North America and South America as part of the airline group’s summer schedule. The cargo division of the IAG Group said a major highlight of the summer schedule – running from April to October – was the return of daily flights to Kuala Lumpur from Heathrow, which are due to start on 1 April utilising Boeing 787-9 capacity. Capacity across North America will “grow significantly”, including the return of flights to Denver from Dublin as well as additional services on routes such as Chicago, Vancouver and Washington from Heathrow. In Latin America, services to Rio de Janeiro from Madrid will increase from four to six flights per week, ”supporting growing demand in the region”.

According to IATA, “Air cargo registered its first year-on-year decline in February since March 2023 as a result of ‘extraordinary’ growth a year ago. The latest supply and demand statistics from IATA show that air cargo demand decreased by 0.1% in cargo tonne km (CTK) terms in February. However, the cargo load factor actually improved by 0.1 percentage points compared with a year ago to 45% due to a 0.4% decline in capacity supply. IATA said that the demand decline was the result of a spike in air cargo volumes in February last year caused by a number of factors.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) funded Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem (SMILE) Program (SMILE) has plans to boost logistics efficiency. Aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat(Self-Reliant India) initiative by strengthening domestic manufacturing, improving logistics efficiency, the program enabled better integration into global trade network. It has the objectives of improving India’s logistics infrastructure, reducing logistics costs, and increasing efficiency. It supports the implementation of the National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan by strengthening multimodal logistics, standardizing warehousing, and promoting digitalization in trade logistics.

DHL Group and Cryoport, Inc announced that DHL has acquired 100 per cent of CRYOPDP, a leading specialty courier focused on clinical trials, biopharma, and cell and gene therapies. In this context, the companies also announced a strategic partnership to strengthen their supply chain service offerings for the global life sciences and healthcare sector. DHL Group already has an established Life Sciences and Healthcare business, contributing over EUR 5 billion in global revenue in 2024. Building on this foundation, the acquisition of CRYOPDP marks a significant step in DHL’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in specialized pharma logistics and expanding the breadth of its offering in the rapidly growing life science and healthcare sector. CRYOPDP specializes in providing white-glove courier services essential to the sectors it serves. With operations in 15 countries, CRYOPDP handles over 600,000 shipments per year, servicing customers and patients in over 135 countries worldwide.

Keku Bomi Gazder, CEO and MD, Aviapro Logistic said, “The air cargo industry has been adapting to challenges, but several key factors still affect its profitability. Limited cargo space of aircraft creates fierce competition, particularly during peak seasons. Navigating new trade tariffs, customs requirements, and security protocols is time-consuming and heavy on the pockets. Delays are caused by various factors, including weather, ineffective logistics, and unforeseen technical glitches, which may leave customers dissatisfied. Rising fuel prices and skilled labor costs add expenses, putting pressure on freight forwarders’ profit margins. Antiquated, paper-based procedures reduce productivity and increase the risk of errors. The disruptions in India’s air cargo industry caused by ongoing global conflict created barriers to the smooth shipment of cargo and goods. The industry has shown resilience and continues to adapt and evolve to sustain itself despite the hurdles. We must focus on strategic improvements across key operational areas. We expect significant gains through dedicated cargo flights, advanced forecasting, capacity management, and streamlined logistics. Leveraging digital platforms and data analytics for booking, tracking, and paperwork will reduce the processing time involved in aerodynamic operations. Adopting sustainable, energy-efficient technology and strategic route planning will help optimise costs. Lastly, in the long term, it is important to focus on enhancing MRO capabilities by developing state-of-the-art aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul facilities, positioning India as a global hub for aviation servicing.”

According to WorldACD Market Data, “Air cargo demand out of Asia Pacific continues to rebuild after Lunar New Year (LNY), with tonnages from Asia Pacific markets to the US clocking up their sixth successive week-on-week (WoW) increase since the holiday period. Figures from WorldACD Market Data show that spot prices also rose, with China to US prices at their second-highest level this year.” Tonnages from Asia Pacific markets to the US increased overall by a further 3% in week 12, their sixth successive WoW increase since LNY, driven by increases from South Korea, up 13%; Vietnam, up 6%; Hong Kong, up 5%; and China, up 2%. Meanwhile, spot prices from Asia Pacific to the US rose 5% WoW, to $5.16 per kilo. China to US prices recorded a second consecutive week of double-digit percentage increases – 12% WoW – taking them to $4.53 per kilo. This was their second-highest level this year, second only to their level in week one.

CEVA Logistics has expanded operations with the addition of a new transpacific air charter operation as it looks to cater for demand between China and the US. The new service operates between Wuxi in China and Chicago in the US utilising a Boeing 747 freighter three times per week. The first flight left Wuxi earlier today (28 March) carrying around 100 tons of cargo. The service will cater for a range of cargo types including, industrial equipment, electronics, oversized cargo, e-commerce goods, and apparel. CEVA said Wuxi airport covers the Yangtze River Delta Economic Development Zone and serves not only global companies with manufacturing sites on the outskirts of Shanghai, but also Chinese companies in industrial, technology and e-commerce sectors. Cargo can also be transported from Southeast Asia to Wuxi, the forwarder said.

Softlink Academy has signed an MoU with MITCON to boost expertise in logistics technology. This collaboration is part of LogiSKILL, a key program under Softlink Academy. By combining Softlink Academy’s expertise in logistics technology with MITCON’s experience in skill development, this initiative aims to equip aspiring professionals with practical logistics expertise that will make them ready for jobs and careers in logistics. Students will be trained on advanced technology and provided with industry-recognized certifications on program completion.  Softlink Academy also includes LogiEXPERT, a globally recognized certification that validates expertise in logistics software and operations, helping professionals gain a competitive edge. Additionally, LogiLEARN fosters partnerships with educational institutions, integrating logistics-focused courses with industry exposure. Amit Maheshwari, Founder & CEO Softlink Global said, “Softlink Academy is committed to empowering young professionals with the right skills to drive logistics forward. Partnering with MITCON allows us to expand our mission and ensure that more students receive industry-focused, technology-driven training that prepares them for success.” Anand Chalwade, Managing Director, MITCON, added, “Our goal at MITCON has always been to create career opportunities through skill-based education. Collaborating with Softlink Academy enables us to strengthen logistics training and provide graduates with the expertise required for real-world employment.”