Category Archives: Aviation

Sushant Nigam, Executive Director, Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) talks about the upcoming 47th Convention’s theme and says, “This year’s theme is focused on Artificial Intelligence supporting the game of supply chain, more constructively and precisely. The chain of logistics sector is very complex and inter-dependent on various factors as well as various players involved in the entire chain. Delay on part of one or more processes of one or more players would affect the timelines/schedules of other players as well as the logistics cost. Keeping pace or anticipating through human intervention has its own limitations, hence Artificial Intelligence like concept is need of the day.”

rioritizing Air Cargo in Foreign Trade Agreements (FTAs) can have a significant impact on international trade, says Vipin Vohra, Chairman, Continental Carriers. “Air cargo is known for its speed and efficiency in transporting cargo across borders. Prioritizing air cargo in FTAs can lead to quicker delivery times, reducing lead times for businesses and consumers. Air cargo is particularly useful for transporting perishable goods (like fresh produce and pharmaceuticals) and high-value goods (like electronics and luxury items) that require swift transportation to maintain their quality and value. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of supply chain resilience. Air cargo was critical for transporting medical supplies and vaccines during the pandemic. Prioritizing air cargo in FTAs can help ensure a resilient supply chain for essential goods. Airports and airlines cover a wide range of destinations, allowing businesses to access global markets easily. This can be especially beneficial for countries with limited land connections or geographical constraints.”

Prepare for a game-changing event as The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) unveils the theme: ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI) – The Game Changer- Embracing the Intelligent Future,’ for its 47th Annual Convention in Kuala Lumpur from November 23-26. AI is reshaping the logistics industry, and industry leaders embrace cutting-edge technologies for greater efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. Join us from November 23rd to 26th, 2023, in Kuala Lumpur as we explore the future of logistics. CK Govil, VP, ACAAI says, “Efficient air cargo operations, optimised logistics and an improved customer experience are what AI can bring to our industry. It has the power to ease bottlenecks at airports, make data transparent and well organised, and optimise storage in warehouses and planning for flights. AI can facilitate information collection, processing, and flow, thus reducing disruptions in the supply chain. Besides tracking shipments in real time, AI can predict delays based on previous data. This can help the industry players save time and money and prevent interruptions in air cargo deliveries. We have seen AI-enabled chatbots strengthening customer support in many industries. It will bring about a similar change in the way we manage customer queries and make air cargo booking and reservations simpler.”

Air India SATS Airport Services was felicitated with ‘Best Cargo Ground Handler’ award at recently concluded India Cargo Awards 2023 in New Delhi. Piyush Srivastava, IES, Senior Economic Advisor graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Known as the “Oscars of the Cargo Industry,” the India Cargo Awards 2023 hosted by Cargo Talk (DDP Group Publication) serves as an all-India platform created with a vision to recognise excellence in the Cargo-Freight-Logistics Industry across various domains, including Rail, Road, Air, Sea, Allied Services, Warehousing, Technology, 3rd Party Logistics, and more. Our world-class awards ceremonies are known for their formal Black-Tie affair, filled with glitz and glamour, attended by the most influential personalities in the Cargo Industry.

Demand remains low with minimal growth while global capacity has increased by 12% year on year, said DHL Global Forwarding in its Air Freight – State of the Industry report for August. While only a ‘conservative’ increase in volume demand is expected in the 2023 late-year peak season, most airlines have capacity at hand. Rising demand for passenger travel has boosted the number of flights and has increased bellyhold capacity by around 19%, year on year, the report added. DHL sees scheduled carrier capacity as likely to be up 9% in the third quarter of 2023 compared with the second quarter, and by 18% compared with the first quarter. Capacity remains sufficient on most trade lanes. However, retirements of freighters on the transpacific routes are bringing capacity “one step closer towards right-sizing”. Meanwhile, high global inventories, inflation and lower purchasing power are both keeping demand in check, it said.

EMBALL’ISO India Packaging was felicitated with ‘Most Sustainable Solution with Reverse Logistics’ award at recently concluded India Cargo Awards 2023 in New Delhi. Piyush Srivastava, IES, Senior Economic Advisor graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Known as the “Oscars of the Cargo Industry,” the India Cargo Awards 2023 hosted by Cargo Talk (DDP Group Publication) serves as an all-India platform created with a vision to recognise excellence in the Cargo-Freight-Logistics Industry across various domains, including Rail, Road, Air, Sea, Allied Services, Warehousing, Technology, 3rd Party Logistics, and more. Our world-class awards ceremonies are known for their formal Black-Tie affair, filled with glitz and glamour, attended by the most influential personalities in the Cargo Industry.

UPS announces the launch of a new technology centre in Chennai. The centre will be focused on innovations that make it easier for customers to do business. Earlier this year, the company announced a strategic investment of $15-20 million in India that will complement technology teams in the U.S. and Europe. According to the reports, these centres will enable us to offer an unparalleled logistics experience for our customers, through advanced technologies including AI, automation and robotics.

Rainbow Aviation was honoured with ‘Best Cargo – GSSA International’ award at recently concluded India Cargo Awards 2023 in New Delhi. Piyush Srivastava, IES, Senior Economic Advisor graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Known as the “Oscars of the Cargo Industry,” the India Cargo Awards 2023 hosted by Cargo Talk (DDP Group Publication) serves as an all-India platform created with a vision to recognise excellence in the Cargo-Freight-Logistics Industry across various domains, including Rail, Road, Air, Sea, Allied Services, Warehousing, Technology, 3rd Party Logistics, and more. Our world-class awards ceremonies are known for their formal Black-Tie affair, filled with glitz and glamour, attended by the most influential personalities in the Cargo Industry.

dnata has partnered with logistics technology solutions provider Speedcargo to deliver cutting-edge cargo services to Etihad Cargo at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). Speedcargo’s artificial intelligence (AI)-based Cargo Eye and Assemble solutions installed at dnata’s facilities will help overall logistical efficiency, digitisation and optimise cargo capacity for Etihad Cargo’s daily flights departing from Singapore. The roll-out of Cargo Eye and Assemble follows the airline’s decision to implement the technology in response to successful trials. 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 highly-trained cargo handling teams of the optimal method of building a pallet. The innovative solutions ensure Etihad Cargo maximises cargo capacity, while becoming more efficient and sustainable. Both Cargo Eye and Assemble seamlessly integrate into dnata’s existing warehouse management system.

Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO, Delhi International Airport says, “The air cargo sector faces several challenges, each with its corresponding strategic response. Capacity constraints, driven by reduced passenger flight cargo space due to the pandemic, necessitate innovative partnerships and investments. Compliance with complex regulations, especially in security and customs, is maintained through continuous protocol updates. Mitigating volatile fuel costs involves exploring fuel-efficient technologies and sustainable aviation fuels. Economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions emphasize the diversification of markets and services. Robust contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies counter supply chain disruptions. Talent shortages are tackled via training programs and attractive compensation packages. Security threats demand cutting-edge measures and staff training. Rapid changes in global trade policies are monitored and addressed through advocacy. These challenges, while testing, offer opportunities for innovation, sustainability, technology adoption, and strategic partnerships to fortify industry leadership.