Unilode, American announce deal on ULD management, digitalisation

Unilode Aviation Solutions and American Airlines announced a long-term unit load device (ULD) management partnership.

"The partnership will take effect from October 1, 2025, where Unilode will provide American Airlines with full ULD management services, leveraging its extensive repair network, asset availability from its vast ULD fleet and cutting-edge digital technology," says an official release from Unilode.

As part of the collaboration, Unilode will equip American Airlines’ ULD fleet with its bluetooth and Lora-enabled tracking technology, providing asset visibility, location tracking and condition monitoring of ULDs, the release added.

"Unilode’s digital solutions, including the in-house developed eULD app and customer portal, will offer enhanced accessibility and transparency for ULD management. These applications complement Unilode’s world’s largest ULD tag and reader network, enabling American Airlines and its partners to monitor ULD status, track assets seamlessly, maximise ULD utilisation, optimise operational decision-making with real-time data insights."

Greg Schwendinger, President, American Airlines Cargo says: "American Airlines is committed to investing in innovative solutions that improve operational performance and deliver a seamless experience for our customers. Unilode’s expertise in ULD management and digital tracking technology will play a crucial role in modernizing our operations and ensuring the highest level of reliability and service."

Unilode will also provide maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services across its U.S. and global repair network. Planning and positioning of ULD assets will be managed from Unilode’s state-of-the-art operations control centre (OCC) in Bangkok, providing optimised resource allocation and real-time decision-making support, the release added.

"We are thrilled to partner with American Airlines to support their ULD operations with our innovative solutions," says Ross Marino, CEO, Unilode Aviation Solutions. "Our digital tracking capabilities and expertise in ULD management will bring significant benefits to American Airlines’ cargo and passenger operations, and we look forward to a successful collaboration for many years to come. We sincerely thank American Airlines for placing their trust in Unilode."