CEAL completes implementation of high-capacity AGVs in terminal 4

China Eastern Air Logistics (CEAL) has officially transitioned its operations at Shanghai Pudong International Airport into a next-generation smart facility following the successful deployment of a high-capacity automated guided vehicle (AGV) fleet.

Developed in partnership with Lödige Industries, the six 10ft AGVs are now fully operational in CEAL’s Cargo Terminal 4.

According to the press release, the implementation marks a leap in air cargo automation, with each German-manufactured AGV capable of transporting loads of up to 6.8 tonnes.

By replacing traditional manual transport with these autonomous units, the terminal has established new benchmarks for safety, stability, and reliability in heavy-duty cargo handling.

Central to the upgrade is the integration of the AGVs with Lödige’s Cargo Professional Suite. This proprietary Cargo Management System (CMS) streamlines the planning, guidance, and tracking of cargo flows.

Through real-time data analytics, terminal managers can access visualised insights via mobile devices, allowing for precise control over the facility's logistics.

"Lödige's system far exceeded our expectations, completely transforming our operational model," said Weddy Pan, Senior Deputy Manager at CEAL’s Cargo Terminal Business Development division. "It has made our logistics processes more efficient and adaptable, while fully preparing us for sustained future growth."

The introduction of the AGV fleet reduces the terminal’s reliance on fixed infrastructure and manual labor, enabling more dynamic and scalable cargo flows. In addition to optimising routing and supporting 24/7 operations, the automated system minimises the risk of damage to unit load devices (ULDs), allowing human personnel to pivot toward higher-value strategic tasks.