Etihad Cargo launches AI-powered solutions for airfreight operations

ABU DHABI, UAE - Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, has launched an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solution to to optimize airfreight operations and boost cargo capacity on flights. 

In 2021, Etihad Cargo entered into a proof-of-concept agreement with logistics technology solutions provider, Speedcargo Technologies, which leveraged the Singapore-based provider's AI products to maximize cargo capacity on flights. Following successful trials of Speedcargo's AI solutions, Etihad Cargo has rolled out three AI-powered products — Amplifi, Cargo Eye and Assemble — to boost efficiency, digitize and standardize cargo handling across Etihad Cargo's network, and enhance service levels for the carrier's customers and partners.

Etihad Cargo uses Amplifi to optimize cargo loads on each flight. The technology dynamically calculates free and usable capacity based on booked cargo, aircraft type and cargo offer. Utilizing the system-generated ULD level load plans, Etihad Cargo will maximize the cargo carried on its flights and reduce the risk of overbookings. Cargo Eye is a scalable, modular system that captures cargo dimensions and volume data. Powered by Microsoft's IOT Edge solutions and Speedcargo's proprietary algorithms, Cargo Eye allows Etihad Cargo to digitize cargo as it enters the carrier's ground handling stations, enabling the real-time sharing of cargo information for load planning, build-up planning and forward operations. Etihad Cargo will deploy Assemble across the carrier's network of ground handling stations to facilitate the digital planning and build-up of ULDs using the load plans generated by Amplifi. Offering a user-friendly solution, Amplifi provides ground handling partners with build-up plans that provide step-by-step instructions for optimally built ULDs that conform to safety regulations.

Trials of the AI-powered, end-to-end cargo handling solutions were carried out in Singapore, where this technology has been deployed and is already utilized by Etihad Cargo's ground handling partners. The carrier has also launched a pilot program to implement these solutions in Frankfurt and is actively collaborating with ground handling partners across Etihad Cargos' expansive global network, with a view to rolling this cargo-maximizing technology out to more stations in the coming months.