AHS/Menzies relies on Lödige’s automated ULD storage system

Aviation Handling Services Jordan (AHS) has started using state-of-the-art technology from Lödige Industries at its newly developed cargo terminal at the Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Kingdom of Jordan.

"As the world's leading provider of air cargo terminal solutions, Lödige Industries was contracted to provide the client an automated solution for handling import and export shipments into and out of the Kingdom of Jordan. The project started in February 2022 and was finished in July 2024," says an official release from Lödige.

Lödige designed, manufactured and delivered a customised automated storage system with a capacity of 136 unit load devices (ULDs), the release added. "This includes an elevating transfer vehicle (ETV), the newest in the Kingdom of Jordan, which ensures reliable, fast and efficient storage and retrieval processes. The ETV is guided on rails and transports the ULDs vertically and horizontally with its lift at the same time. A tailor-made conveyor system of powered roller decks is used for efficient and safe transport between different work areas. Here, elevating workstations (EWS) ensure optimised processes during build-up and break-down. Lödige Industries also equipped the terminal with a cargo control system to interface with the client cargo management system as well as additional mobile terminal equipment, including mobile workstations and mobile workstation movers (formerly slave pallets and slave pallet movers)."

The new terminal spans 8,000 square metres, featuring a very narrow aisle (VNA) racking system with 2,400 skid positions, capable of accommodating a diverse range of single shipments and storing pallets of varying sizes and weights, the release added. "Additionally, approximately 4,000 square metres of space in front of the warehouse airside can be efficiently utilized for GSE and ULD, providing ample room for freighter handling. The handling capacity is expected to increase to 60,000 tonnes per year. The facility supports the regional operations of AHS/Menzies and Menzies Global Network."

Guy Walker, Managing Director, Lödige Systems Middle East says: "The fully equipped new freight terminal enables AHS to automate its ULD handling to a large extent, and ensures a high throughput of cargo for long-term growth at the Queen Alia International Airport. As the leading supplier, we were able to meet all of the customer's requirements ranging from design and production to commissioning and maintenance from a single source."

Dominique Ceulemans, Managing Director, AHS Jordan adds: "We are pursuing a long-term growth plan and have therefore chosen a reliable and powerful system from Lödige Industries to equip our new cargo terminal. The high level of automation allows us to handle cargo quickly, efficiently and safely thus achieving the high-quality service we want to offer our customers.”