Unilode steps up digital transformation for the aviation industry

March 14, 2018: Unilode Aviation Solutions recently mooted a plan to accelerate digital transformation for ULD management solutions, by bringing to the market a tracking solution based on a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) tag.

The tracking solution will be fully embedded into the structure of ULDs, which will be supported by a global interoperable reader infrastructure.

In an attempt to implement its digitisation programme, Unilode has teamed up with technology provider OnAsset Intelligence Inc, and a leading ULD manufacturer.

Unilode customers, Cathay Pacific, Air Canada, Cargolux and AirBridgeCargo are among the airlines who are involved in the digitisation programme, which will be rolled out this year. Several shippers are expected to partaking in the digitisation.

Benoît Dumont, CEO, Unilode Aviation Solutions said: “We have decided to accelerate the use of modern technology in the ULD management solutions. After winning the inaugural IATA Air Cargo Innovation Award in 2015, we worked closely with our customers to enhance our digital tracking technology, with user input across the end-to-end value chain.

“Unilode does not intend to lock itself, its customers and industry partners into proprietary technologies, and hence has decided to make public all APIs, which is necessary to capture information from its digitally enabled platforms. This approach will greatly enhance interoperability and flexibility for our customers,” said Dumont.

Adam Crossno, CEO, OnAsset Intelligence said: “I am excited to build on what has already been a very successful cooperation with Unilode Aviation Solutions. As all of us know the primary concern in our industry is safety, and therefore it’s essential that digital technologies comply with all safety regulations in our industry.”

“OnAsset has always focused on full compliance with industry regulations, and we are well known for our patented FlightSafe technology, which has allowed our products to receive approval from the FAA and EASA as well as over 80 global airlines,” said Crossno.

Along with Unilode, we have been focusing on making sure the technology is safe, compliant, fit for purpose and technically sound. Our common vision is that this technology should be accessible for all stakeholders in the value chain, so that intelligent ULDs can be leveraged by airlines, ground handlers, freight forwarders and shippers. This is extremely important because quite often the tracking challenges arise when shipments leave their expected route and are not found where they are expected to be,” said Crossno.