Cathay Cargo Terminal tests autonomous electric tractor operations

 Cathay Cargo Terminal has completed the first end-to-end trial of autonomous electric tractor (AET) operations for direct towing from the inside of the terminal to the west cargo apron (WCA) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The trial involved a fully autonomous electric tow-tractor pulling four cargo dollies into the Cathay Cargo Terminal and driving itself to the correct cargo transfer gate for loading, says an official release. "After loading, the AET drove itself out of the terminal and successfully completed its journey across HKIA to the furthest cargo apron, the WCA, delivering the cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight."

A key feature of the initiative is the precise docking solution, enabling the AET’s towing dolly chains to automatically align with the transfer deck for seamless unit load device (ULD) loading. Enhanced security features also allow the AET to be digitally checked into and out of the terminal without compromising security, the release added.

"The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE, one of China’s leading autonomous driving companies. This breakthrough not only streamlines cargo movement, but also strengthens operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability."

Mark Watts, Chief Operating Officer, Cathay Cargo Terminal says: "This has been an important proof-of-concept to show that AETs are capable of more advanced workflows than we have seen so far for cargo, reducing manual processes and significantly enhancing operational efficiency. This also improves overall cargo flow at the world’s busiest cargo hub and significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with traditional ground service equipment."

In addition to ongoing trials with AETs, Cathay Cargo Terminal is also piloting the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) for its non-electric cargo tractors. HVO is a renewable alternative to fossil-based diesel, with the ability to reduce the lifecycle carbon emissions approximately 80-90 percent, the release added.

"HVO is a very important step, but continued electrification is the ultimate vision to help us reduce carbon emissions and pursue Cathay’s digital and sustainability leadership," adds Watts.