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EDITOR’S NOTE
Dear Reader,
In this issue of PayloadAsia, we spotlight the innovations and challenges shaping cold chain logistics, in which precision, compliance, and collaboration are more essential than ever.
For our cover story, CEVA Logistics shares how it is advancing cold chain solutions for healthcare and perishables across Asia Pacific. The feature explores the company’s investments in real-time monitoring systems, sustainable practices, and pharmaceuticalgrade facilities to ensure the safe and efficient transport of temperature-sensitive goods.
In our C-Suite section, we speak with Mike Chew, CEO of Asia Airfreight Terminal, where he discusses the company’s vision, the development of COOLPORT and how AAT is preparing for the next phase of regional growth in time- and temperature-sensitive cargo.
Our Company Profile puts the spotlight on dnata, recognised as Cold Chain Service Provider of the Year at the 11th Payload Asia Awards. The story explores how dnata is responding to shifting market demands through strategic investments across cargo handling, ground services, and catering, with a sharp focus on strengthening its cold chain capabilities in Asia and beyond.
This issue also features SATS, whose award-winning innovations are redefining cold chain handling in Singapore. In Europe, meanwhile, Vienna Airport serves as a CEIV Pharmacertified hub that plays a vital role in the continent’s healthcare logistics network.
And from China, Cainiao provides insights into the fast-changing landscape of cross-border e-commerce and the rising need for agile, resilient cold chain networks that can serve global consumers in real time.
With demand for fresh and life-saving cargo at an all-time high, and global standards becoming more stringent, this issue captures how leaders in the industry are innovating to meet rising expectations and complex challenges in cold chain logistics.
Warm regards,
Monina Eugenio
Chief Editor
Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation partner to establish a global air logistics bridge connecting Asia and the Middle East
China Airlines orders next-generation 777X passenger and cargo aircraft from Boeing for major capacity boost
Emirates expands footprint into Eastern China with launch of daily Dubai-Hangzhou flights
Qatar Airways Cargo named launch customer of Mammoth Freighters 777200LRMF
Singapore Airlines Group continues progress on decarbonisation journey with Neste and World Energy agreements
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo introduces enhanced allotment customisation on myCargo platform
Etihad Airways and SF Airlines sign cargo joint business agreement to expand global air freight network
Lufthansa Cargo to market cargo capacities of ITA Airways and adds Rome as its fifth hub
IAG Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo prepare for the launch of a global cargo joint business
WestJet Cargo expands capacity to Japanwith daily Dreamliner service
Logistics raises the bar in healthcare cold chain logistics across
Kuehne+Nagel expands its operations at Liege Airport
Changi Airport breaks ground on Terminal 5
Vienna Airport sees record air cargo growth in 2024
Glasgow Prestwick Airport begins first scheduled freighter services with China Southern Air Logistics
China Cargo Airlines launches new B777F freighter service between Liege and Hefei
Liege Airport launches CargoLand — the hub of the future
dnata to open advanced animal handling centre in Amsterdam
Swissport and Aurrigo launch first global trial of autonomous ground handling at Zurich
FCS Frankfurt Cargo Services wins new contract with EDT — eDirect Transport
Hactl commences stage two of intelligent cargo thermal detection system implementation
Menzies Aviation announces bold progress against its ‘All In’ sustainability commitments
Oman Air Cargo confirms European ground handling network
CEVA Logistics announces new strategic warehouse in Singapore
APL Logistics opens first-of-its-kind flowthrough centre in Jakarta
DHL Group partners with Shopify to accelerate cross-border shipping worldwide
blended-wing-body aircraft to commercial air freight
New Singapore office brings Kardex intralogistics expertise to Southeast Asia
Lödige Industries in Asia expands presence with new branch office in South Korea
FedEx and SingPost collaborate to expand parcel drop-off points at post offices
Cainiao opens new distribution centre for top Brazilian express firm, boosting sorting efficiency 7x
UPS enhances service in Johor to accelerate global delivery
HAECO welcomes HKSAR Government’s announcement on admission of skilled trade professionals
ST Engineering secures multi-year LEAP1A maintenance contract with Air Cairo
Kuehne+Nagel partners with cargo.one for global digital airline connectivity
Cargolux and AIT Worldwide Logistics sign historic SAF deal
China Airlines launches digital booking on WebCargo by Freightos
Thai Airways strengthens Nordic presence with HWF by ECS Group as GSSA in Sweden and Denmark
Security and compliance top priorities for GSSAs reveals Awery poll of FEDAGSA membership
Mondial Airlines Services GmbH wins Coyne Airways’ Germany GSA tender
Kale Logistics to develop Oman’s National Port Community System
CargoTech offers digital capacity win-win to airline partners
WiseTech Global to acquire e2open in US$2.1B deal to expand global logistics platform
ACI: Asia Pacific and Middle East Airports commits to capacity optimisation and infrastructure upgrades both on ground and in the air
Pharma.Aero and TIACA’s joint project leverages air cargo to boost healthcare access and empower agricultural economies
Trans Global Projects names Lim Ling Ling Director as it launches Malaysian office
IATA appoints Sheldon Hee as Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific
Luis Gallego Chairs IATA Board
TIACA announces Roos Bakker to be the Next TIACA Chair, taking over from Steven Polmans
Etihad Cargo introduces new regional structure to support network growth
Lufthansa Cargo appoints new COO and CFO/CHRO
Kuehne+Nagel appoints Marcus Claesson as Chief Information Officer
DHL Global Forwarding appoints new Chief Information Officer andS enior Vice President of Business Process Optimisation for Asia Pacific
Chapman Freeborn unveils new European cargo team at Air Cargo Europe
Global GSA Group appoints Aytekin Saray as CEO
NEWS - CARRIERS
Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation partner to establish a global air logistics bridge connecting Asia and the Middle East
Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation (CHAGC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a ceremony witnessed by His Excellency, President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Mr. Sun Shougang, Executive Vice-Governor of the Henan Provincial People’s Government, and Mr.Zhang Mingachao, Chairman of
China Henan Aviation Group. This strategic partnership aims to establish a robust air logistics bridge between Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, leveraging Zhengzhou and Riyadh as key interconnected hubs.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, encompassing
route development, including launching and scaling cargo flights between Zhengzhou and Riyadh, It also includes a dual hub strategy, positioning Zhengzhou and Riyadh as strategic hubs to interconnect AsiaPacific, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, optimising cargo flow and reducing transit times.
Furthermore, the collaboration will focus on cargo and logistics innovation, enhancing digital cargo operations, crossborder e-commerce, and sustainability initiatives to drive efficiency and reduce environmental impact. The partnership will also support airport economic zone cooperation, facilitating the integration of bonded logistics, free trade zones, and airside industries to drive trade growth and attract investment. Key aspects also include regulatory alignment, technical and financial cooperation, and exploring investment opportunities in high-tech and aviationrelated sectors in Zhengzhou.
China Airlines orders next-generation 777X passenger and cargo aircraft from Boeing for major capacity boost
China Airlines has ordered ten Boeing 7779s and four 777-8F freighters, with deliveries starting in 2030 and options for nine more. It will be the first Taiwanese carrier to operate the 777X. The 777-9s will serve long-haul routes to North America and Europe, while the 777-8Fs will complement the existing 777F fleet, boosting global network efficiency and service quality.
China Airlines signed a contract for new 777X aircraft at a ceremony attended by
Chairman Kao Shing-hwang and Boeing
SVP Brad McMullen. The 777-9s will serve key long-haul routes like Los Angeles and Frankfurt with a three-class layout, featuring more Premium Business Class seats to meet growing demand. The 777-8Fs will complement the current 777F fleet, offering high commonality and contributing to the airline’s long-term profitability.
China Airlines is advancing its fleet renewal with the 777-9, featuring a higher ceiling,
improved air systems, and LED mood lighting for enhanced long-haul comfort. The 777-8F freighter shares cargo specs with the 777F, offering operational flexibility, improved handling efficiency, and reduced cargo damage. The order supports cargo network expansion, greater range and payload, and future growth.
Brad McMullen, Senior VP of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, expressed pride in the nearly 60-year partnership with China Airlines. China Airlines will be Taiwan’s first carrier to join the 777X club. The 777-9 passenger aircraft offers advanced technology for an enhanced travel experience, while the fuel-efficient 777-8F freighter will help maintain their cargo market lead. Both models feature composite fuselages and GE9X engines, reducing fuel use and carbon emissions by 25%, supporting China Airlines’ goal of net zero by 2050. This next-generation fleet reflects their commitment to global growth and modernisation.
Emirates expands footprint into Eastern China with launch of daily Dubai-Hangzhou flights
Emirates is set to launch a daily non-stop service between Dubai and Hangzhou from 30 July. The airline’s latest expansion into Hangzhou makes the city its fifth gateway into the Chinese mainland after Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
The new service will operate with a threeclass Boeing 777-300ER, with a total capacity of 2,478 weekly seats. Emirates flight EK310 will depart Dubai at 0940hrs and arrives in Hangzhou at 2200hrs. The return flight, EK311, will depart Hangzhou at 0010hrs, landing in Dubai at 04:55hrs.
The new flights are optimally timed to connect travellers to 38 destinations in Europe, 22 in Africa, 11 in the Middle East as well as Brazil and Argentina, offering convenient two-way connections to key cities including Istanbul, Barcelona, Cairo and Johannesburg.
A rising tech powerhouse
As the capital of Zhejiang Province and home to Alibaba Group, Hangzhou is fast emerging as a global hub for innovation and e-commerce. Cross-border e-commerce exports are set to exceed AED 70 billion by 2026, cementing its role in China’s digital economy.
Blending rich heritage, like the UNESCO-
listed West Lake and Liangzhu ruins, with a thriving tech scene driven by AI, big data, and cloud computing, Hangzhou offers unique opportunities for Emirates’ travellers. In 2024, its digital economy generated over AED 1 trillion, making up nearly 29% of the city’s GDP and fueling continued growth.
Serving passengers and cargo
Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER will feature 8 First Class suites, 42 Business Class seats, and 304 Economy Class seats. Passengers can enjoy over 6,500 channels on the ice entertainment system, regionally inspired cuisine, and Chinese-language options.
Emirates SkyCargo will enhance trade links between China and the UAE, supporting Hangzhou’s position as a key cargo and e-commerce hub.
Emirates SkyCargo will leverage the new Hangzhou route to enhance its cargo footprint across East Asia, meeting rising demand for reliable air freight solutions. The service will also reduce transit times, enabling faster, more efficient movement of high-value and time-sensitive goods, including electronics, e-commerce products, pharmaceuticals, and perishables between the Chinese market and key regions, including Africa, Latin America, and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Starting 30 July, Emirates will operate 49 weekly flights to the Chinese mainland, including a new daily service to Hangzhou. This expansion highlights strengthening UAE-China ties and Emirates’ support for the Belt and Road Initiative.
Qatar Airways Cargo named launch customer of Mammoth Freighters 777-200LRMF
Qatar Airways Cargo has been named launch customer of the Mammoth Freighters 777-200LRMF and has finalised an agreement for five (5) aircraft with Jetran, LLC – a Horseshoe Bay, Texas-based leader in aircraft leasing, sales, and aviation services.
Mammoth Freighters LLC (“Mammoth”) has also announced the successful completion of the initial test flight of its 777-200LRMF prototype freighter. The prototype aircraft, now registered as N705DN, took to the skies following an extensive and rigorous conversion process at Mammoth’s modification partner facility, Aspire MRO, in Fort Worth, Texas. This achievement demonstrates the advanced capabilities of the Mammoth 777-200LRMF, designed to set new standards for productivity and economy in the long-range widebody freighter market.
The Mammoth 777-200LRMF features the advanced Collins Aerospace cargo loading system, specifically optimised for the 777 passenger-to-freighter market. This system, developed over three years of close collaboration, ensures high levels of parts commonality and operational reliability— attributes already proven on 777 production freighters worldwide.
Currently, Mammoth has seven (7) 777200/-300 aircraft undergoing conversion: five (5) at Aspire MRO in Fort Worth, Texas, and two (2) at STS Aviation Services in Manchester, UK. The company holds firm orders for 35 freighter conversions across a diverse portfolio of customers.
Singapore Airlines Group continues progress on decarbonisation journey with Neste and World Energy agreements
The Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group has signed agreements with Neste and World Energy to acquire Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and SAF certificates, respectively, supporting its decarbonisation journey while gaining further valuable insights into the pathways, standards, and certification systems in the renewable fuel landscape.
The first transaction saw the Group acquire 1,000 tonnes of Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA)-eligible neat SAF, sourced from renewable fuel producer Neste. The SAF was produced at Neste’s Singapore refinery,
blended locally and uplifted at Singapore Changi Airport. This is the Group’s second purchase of neat SAF from the Singapore refinery, helping to develop the country’s SAF ecosystem and enhance supply chain resilience.
In addition, the Group purchased approximately 2,000 tonnes of CORSIAeligible SAF in the form of emissions reductions from World Energy, a United States-based producer, utilising the Book & Claim Chain of Custody model4. This allows the Group to claim associated emissions reductions without physical fuel delivery.
Both deals were completed in the first quarter of 2025, and these transactions are projected to reduce more than 9,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
SIA also participates in the Green Fuel Forward campaign, an initiative designed to boost the demand for SAF in the AsiaPacific region. Launched by the World Economic Forum and Singapore’s GenZero, the campaign seeks to enhance awareness and understanding of SAF while actively promoting its use and fostering strategic partnerships between regional corporations and airlines.
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo introduces enhanced allotment customisation on myCargo platform
In response to growing demand for a seamless, flexible and fully digital cargo experience, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo recently released a significant update to its myCargo platform: the new allotment customisation functionality. This brings the autonomy of spot bookings to contracted capacity, thus providing customers full control over their allotment bookings.
Building on its commitment to simplify every step – from quotation and booking through to tracking – the latest update to the autobooking feature enables customers to tailor their allotment bookings to match their contractual requirements, resulting in a faster, more efficient process.
Key new features
• AWB number selection: enables the use of self-chosen AWB numbers to streamline operations and support internal consistency.
• Origin and destination selection: enables definition of specific shipment start and end points to meet routing requirements.
• Goods and handling specification: facilitates the input of detailed cargo and handling information in line with contractual agreements.
• Shipper designation: supports the selection of shippers in accordance with existing contract terms.
Customer benefits in a nutshell
• Enhanced flexibility: effortlessly manage complex contracts, including multiorigin/destination (O&D) and product group contracts.
• Greater efficiency: by determining their own AWB numbers, customers overcome the limitations of pre-assigned AWBs, thus accelerating booking and handling.
• Self-service empowerment: providing a fully digital, self-managed booking experience.
Etihad Airways and SF Airlines sign cargo joint business agreement to expand global air freight network
Etihad Airways and SF Airlines signed a Joint Business Agreement (JBA) to enhance their cargo operations, expand network capacity and offer customers greater flexibility and service options. The agreement was signed by Antonoaldo Neves, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways and Li Sheng, Vice President of SF Group and Chairman of SF Airlines.
Through the agreement, the carriers will collaborate on a metal-neutral basis to jointly market and integrate their airfreight services. The partnership is designed to foster incremental growth and create a seamless, shared network that offers customers an expanded range of destinations, increased cargo capacity and enhanced service efficiency.
As part of the JBA, Etihad Airways and SF Airlines will enhance customer choice by expanding network connectivity and capacity across key trade lanes. Both carriers will also invest in improving service quality and operational efficiency, ensuring a consistently elevated customer experience.
The partnership allows aligned pricing, service standards, and joint route and sales strategies, creating a streamlined, competitive offering and operational synergies.
With rising demand for cross-border e-commerce and time-sensitive logistics, the Etihad Airways–SF Airlines partnership will offer flexible, tailored solutions. The joint business will focus on key cargo verticals, including Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech
and PharmaLife, supporting high-value electronics, sensitive equipment, and temperature-controlled pharmaceuticals.
This strategic partnership aims to boost efficiency, drive revenue growth, and improve customer satisfaction, positioning Etihad Airways and SF Airlines to deliver world-class cargo solutions for today’s logistics needs.
Lufthansa Cargo to market cargo capacities of ITA Airways and adds Rome as its fifth hub
Starting in June 2025, Lufthansa Cargo will start marketing the cargo capacities on ITA Airways routes. With the integration of Rome (FCO) as its cargo hub in Southern Europe, the carrier is adding further routes, capacity and destinations around the globe to its dense network.
For flights starting from 16 June 2025, Lufthansa Cargo will start marketing the cargo capacity under its own AWB prefix from São Paulo (GRU), Rio de Janeiro (GIG) and Buenos Aires (EZE) to Rome. On all other routes, both airlines will initially continue to operate under two separate AWB numbers. Following regulatory approvals, Lufthansa Cargo will gradually
take over the marketing of the Italian airline’s belly capacities on all continental and intercontinental routes under its own AWB prefix. Overall, the global belly capacities available to Lufthansa Cargo customers will then increase by almost 20 per cent. In future, cargo customers will have access to an even denser global network, including the belly capacities marketed within the Lufthansa Group, connecting all major economic centres in Europe and the world.
ITA Airways has officially been part of the Lufthansa Group since the beginning of the year. The Group initially acquired a 41 percent stake in the Italian airline,
with the aim of acquiring further shares. ITA Airways’ modern, environmentally friendly Airbus fleet currently includes 99 aircraft, including 22 long-haul aircraft of the type Airbus A350-900, Airbus A330-900neo and A330-200. ITA Airways flies to around 70 destinations around the world.
IAG Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo prepare for the launch of a global cargo joint business
At Air Cargo Europe in Munich, IAG Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, and MAB Kargo (MASkargo) announced plans to launch their Global Cargo Joint Business. Following the April 2025 announcement, they aim for a formal launch in late 2025, pending regulatory approval. The partnership promises new routing options, greater operational agility, and enhanced global air freight connectivity.
The Global Cargo Joint Business offers greater routing flexibility and capacity across APAC, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, Europe, and the Americas. It will unlock new single-booking routes, opening fresh global trade opportunities. Initial focus will be on key cargo markets,
with more countries added in future phases pending regulatory approval.
The three carriers will be working to progressively align systems, processes, and commercial offerings to ensure a smooth rollout for customers. Streamlined products, services, enhanced digital solutions and a combined Avios loyalty proposition are expected to form part of the collective offering in due course.
The carriers will optimise freighter and belly hold capacity across their networks, boosting efficiency and flexibility. Coordinated ground handling and trucking will also ensure a smoother experience for customers using the joint cargo service.
WestJet Cargo expands capacity to Japan with daily Dreamliner service
WestJet Cargo has announced the expansion of its trans-Pacific capacity with the launch of daily year-round service between Calgary and Tokyo Narita International Airport. Operated by WestJet’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, each flight offers 22 tons and 80 cubic meters of cargo capacity, providing consistent and reliable lift between North America and Asia.
This enhanced service supports strong bilateral trade. Japan is exporting industrial, automotive, electronic, high-
tech, and manufacturing goods through WestJet Cargo’s growing network across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, and Europe. In return, Canadian perishables, meat, seafood, and general freight are reaching Japan faster and more efficiently than ever before.
Bookings on this route are available through WestJet Cargo’s digital partners— CargoAi, WebCargo, and Cargo.one, ensuring seamless access and real-time management for freight forwarders and logistics providers worldwide.
The three carriers will soon sign separate agreements with the UN World Food Programme to provide a total of 1,000 tonnes of free cargo space for delivering essential food supplies. This initiative highlights the Global Cargo Joint Business’s shared commitment to humanitarian aid and ending world hunger.
The cargo expansion complements WestJet’s daily year-round passenger service to Tokyo and its broadened codeshare with Japan Airlines, providing smooth onward connectivity to Osaka and Nagoya, and reinforcing Calgary’s growing role in global trade and logistics.
NEWS - AIRPORTS
Kuehne+Nagel expands its operations at Liege Airport
Liege Airport (LGG) announced that Kuehne+Nagel has chosen to expand its operations at LGG with continued support from Atlas Air Worldwide (Atlas).
This milestone reinforces Liege Airport’s growing reputation as a strategic hub for global freight and highlights the
confidence that major logistics players continue to place in its infrastructure, capabilities, and 24/7 operational flexibility. With this announcement, Atlas is expanding its presence at Liege Airport, where it also operates on behalf of other customers.
Kuehne+Nagel’s decision to expand its presence at Liege Airport is being supported by Atlas, known for operating the world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft. The expansion includes the deployment of widebody Boeing 747-8F aircraft, which are ideally suited for long-haul, heavy freight shipments. Among them is the aircraft named “Inspire” (N862GT), a fuel-efficient freighter branded with the Kuehne+Nagel logo and offering a payload capacity
Changi Airport breaks ground on Terminal 5
Singapore has officially broken ground on Changi Airport Terminal 5 (T5), with Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong leading the ceremony. Designed to handle 50 million passengers annually in its first phase, T5 will significantly boost Changi’s capacity and solidify its position as
a leading global air hub.
The mega terminal will be linked to existing terminals, allowing the airport to function as a single integrated hub. It will also serve as the new home for the Singapore Airlines Group, consolidating its operations under one roof, with space for other carriers to grow.
T5 will feature a dedicated ground transportation centre, integrating train, bus, and taxi services to enhance airportcity connectivity. It will be connected to Singapore’s Thomson-East Coast and Cross Island MRT lines, improving access for both travellers and local visitors. Plans also include seamless air-sea connections via ferry services.
of over 140 metric tons and a range exceeding 8,000 kilometres.
Already well-established at Liege Airport with direct access to airside first-line warehouses, Kuehne+Nagel’s air freight services include express, charter, consolidation, and temperaturecontrolled solutions, supported by cutting-edge digital platforms that ensure full visibility and tracking. With a global network covering over 1,300 sites in close to 100 countries, Kuehne+Nagel handles everything from pharmaceuticals and perishables to aerospace and industrial goods. The company is known for its strong carrier partnerships, reliability, and commitment to sustainability, making it a trusted partner for air cargo across the globe
Extensive automation and digital systems are central to T5’s design, enabling efficient, scalable operations with less reliance on manpower. Sustainability is a key focus: T5 will be a Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy building, featuring one of the country’s largest rooftop solar systems.
Inspired by Singapore’s “city in nature” vision, the terminal will blend modern architecture with natural light and greenery to create a human-scaled, welcoming environment. Travellators and an automated people mover will ease movement within the terminal and connect to Terminal 2.
Located in Changi East, the terminal is part of a broader development including an industrial zone and urban district, supporting Singapore’s aviation, logistics, and business ambitions.
Vienna Airport sees record air cargo growth in 2024
compared to the previous year and plus 5% compared to the pre-crisis year 2019. The positive development of long-haul services boosted cargo results at the airport, as there was strong demand for additional belly capacities in passenger aircraft. With a total of 4,238 tons in 2024, the airport also achieved a new all-time high in pharma handling (up 15.3 %).
The return of Asian carriers like Hainan Airlines and ANA, along with increased frequencies from Qatar Airways, boosted belly cargo capacity at Vienna Airport in 2024. Cargo on passenger aircraft rose 44% to 125,103 tons, while freighter volumes
held steady at 82,610 tons. Trucked cargo grew 24% to 90,199 tons, contributing to a record freight year. Import volumes jumped 20% to 163,026 tons, driven by e-commerce from Asia, while exports climbed 23% to 134,918 tons, with Asia and the U.S. as key markets.
Vienna Airport’s Pharma Handling Center saw strong growth in 2024, handling 4,238 tons—a 15.3% increase over its 2023 record. One of the few in the CEE region, the facility offers all airlines seamless cold chain handling for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical goods.
Vienna Airport ended the year 2024 with new record figures for air cargo volumes: A total of 297,945 tons of cargo were handled, representing a significant increase of 22%
Glasgow Prestwick Airport begins first scheduled freighter services with China Southern Air Logistics
A new agreement between China Southern Air Logistics and Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) will see scheduled cargo flights begin this month, starting at four flights a week and with plans to increase to a daily service.
The agreement means the airport will double its current scheduled freighter movements and has been described as a “game changer” by Glasgow Prestwick Airport Chief Executive Ian Forgie.
“This is welcome news. The airport team have been working hard over the last 12 months to showcase the Prestwick solution as an alternative Cargo Gateway into the UK, and the Board is delighted that a flagship carrier, China Southern Air Logistics, has established a scheduled service from China
China
to Prestwick.”
“We expect this new trade route to grow quickly in 2025 as Prestwick becomes a key UK cargo gateway and direct export hub to China for Scottish seafood and whisky,” said Forgie. “More airline announcements are expected soon.”
PIK invested GBP2.3m in equipment in the last 12 months and is continuing to invest in ground handling equipment and cool chain supply facilities as well as employing more staff, to maximise its capabilities in handling large freighters.
Colin Dai, Country Sales Director for Greater China, said Glasgow Prestwick Airport is known for handling wide-body freighters
Cargo Airlines launches new B777F freighter service between Liege and Hefei
China Cargo Airlines has officially launched a new scheduled cargo route between Liege Airport (LGG), Belgium, and Hefei Xinqiao International Airport (HFE), China, starting 23 May 2025.
Operated with the modern Boeing 777 Freighter (B777F), this new service strengthens the air freight corridor between Europe and Asia, providing increased capacity, efficiency, and reliability for crosscontinental cargo movement.
China Cargo Airlines, a subsidiary of China
Eastern Airlines, is one of China’s leading allcargo carriers. Headquartered in Shanghai, the airline operates a fleet of 15 wide-body freighters serving major logistics hubs across Asia, Europe, and North America. With a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and service excellence, China Cargo Airlines plays a vital role in global trade and supply chain connectivity.
Liege Airport continues to expand its role as a key logistics hub in Europe. This new route reaffirms its strategic importance in global supply chains. Hefei, a rapidly growing
Liege Airport launches CargoLand — the hub of the future
A €500 million investment at LGG is set to transform air cargo handling with CargoLand—a next-gen, multimodal, and sustainable hub. Fully complete by 2040, the project aims to place LGG among Europe’s top three cargo airports.
Already Europe’s fifth-largest cargo airport, LGG stands out with 24/7 operations, a cargo-first mindset, advanced digital systems, and a strong logistics community. Its CargoLand project, set for completion by 2040, will further elevate these strengths. The initiative’s first phase, LGG Connect, aims to unite airport partners—airlines, handlers, forwarders, and public entities— under the motto “Support, Share, Grow.” LGG’s goal: to foster collaboration, drive sustainable infrastructure development,
and become a top-three cargo hub in Europe.
CargoLand will see 90 hectares dedicated to logistics developments, attracting even more major global logistics players than today. 24 hectares are available for office development. Customers will also benefit from a 38,000 m² first-line warehouse constructed to support long-term growth. A 120,000 m² e-commerce and 180,000 m² landside warehouse will complement the set-up, ensuring fast on-forwarding for last-mile deliveries and smooth second-line handling processes. 15 new parking stands are planned for GSE, and its own MRO hangar will also speed up any aircraft checks or services.
with fast turnarounds by its in-house team. He called the new agreement with China Southern Air Logistics a landmark deal, with strong enthusiasm from both sides.
The first scheduled flight landed at PIK on the 16th May
industrial centre in Eastern China, now gains direct access to the heart of Europe.
The inaugural B777F flight departed from Hefei on 23 May and landed at Liege Airport, marking the start of regular thrice-weekly operations on this route.
Torsten Wefers, VP Sales & Marketing at LGG, says CargoLand aims to be the first choice for freight to and from Europe. With sustainable infrastructure and tech-driven, commodity-specific solutions, it’s set to reshape European logistics.
NEWS - GROUND HANDLING
dnata to open advanced animal handling centre in Amsterdam
dnata will open a dedicated animal handling centre at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) this summer. Part of the dnata Cargo City Amsterdam complex, the purpose-built facility is set to raise the bar for comfort and care in animal transport in Europe.
Spanning 2,380m², the fully temperaturecontrolled centre is designed to accommodate a wide range of animals in a safe, calm environment. It will include separate holding areas, quiet zones, adjustable lighting and an on-site vet to ensure continuous care. The facility will also house stables for over 70 horses, supported by rigorous biosecurity protocols.
The new centre is designed to meet the highest global standards, including IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Live Animals certification. In addition, dnata’s animal handling team is fully trained and regularly updated on IATA’s Live Animals Regulations (LAR), the industry benchmark for humane and compliant animal transport.
The launch comes amid rising demand for high-quality animal transport. In 2024, nearly 200,000 live animal shipments were recorded globally – an 11% increase since 2019. At Schiphol alone, dnata handled 22,500 separate shipments last year.
dnata’s new facility complements its existing 2,000m² Animal Care & Inspection Centre at Brussels Airport, reinforcing its leadership in specialist cargo handling across the Benelux region.
Set to open this July, the new 61,000m² automated hub at dnata Cargo City Amsterdam will handle over 850,000 tonnes of cargo annually, including pharma, perishables, dangerous goods, aircraft engines, and vehicles.
Swissport and Aurrigo launch first global trial of autonomous ground handling at Zurich
Swissport announced a strategic partnership with UK-based Aurrigo International plc for its first global pilot project involving autonomous ground handling solutions. The collaboration will launch at Zurich Airport, positioning Swissport as a pioneer in nextgeneration intelligent Ground Support Equipment (iGSE) and as a forward-looking, tech-enabled ground handler.
The initiative begins with the deployment of a digital simulation platform at Zurich Airport, marking the first step in Swissport’s exploration of autonomous ground handling solutions. Auto-Sim® enables Swissport to model ground operations in a virtual environment, identify automation opportunities, and support data-driven infrastructure and operational planning.
The next phase of the pilot will feature a live trial of Aurrigo’s autonomous, electric vehicle Auto-DollyTug®, which is equipped with 360° obstacle detection, advanced situational awareness, and automated loading and unloading capabilities for Unit Load Devices (ULDs). The system is designed to optimise ramp operations and integrate seamlessly into fleet coordination strategies.
FCS Frankfurt Cargo Services wins new contract with EDT — eDirect Transport
company, has won a contract with EDT –eDirect Transport, a global logistics platform specialising in cross-border e-commerce between China and Europe. Under this agreement, FCS will provide comprehensive E-commerce & Freight Forwarder Handling (EFFH) services at Frankfurt Airport.
This latest development extends WFS and SATS’ cooperation with EDT, which already includes agreements for e-commerce handling at CDG and LGG airports. It also reflects WFS and SATS’ commitment to the e-commerce industry to enable faster throughput of shipments at all stations.
The new contract in Frankfurt coincides with
The collaboration at Zurich Airport marks the first step in a broader rollout plan. Swissport and Aurrigo will jointly assess additional airport locations for future implementation, with Swissport securing exclusive operational rights for Aurrigo’s autonomous solutions at its co-operated locations. Swissport will also benefit from early access to Aurrigo’s expanding autonomous portfolio, including its remote control and command platform, enabling the scalable deployment of autonomous assets across the company’s global network.
Swissport is reinforcing its leadership in digital ground handling through its partnership with Aurrigo, investing in smart technologies and sustainable practices to meet the evolving needs of airlines and airports.
FCS’ investment to expand its dedicated e-commerce handling facility at Germany’s biggest air logistics gateway by 300% to 2,000 sqm. FCS will commence specialist handling of import e-commerce shipments for EDT.
Under the terms of the agreement, FCS will support EDT by providing enhanced services for import units in FCS’s first-line warehouse with direct ramp access. The service facilitates the quick breakdown, sortation, and delivery to the last-mile transportation provider under agreed process timings.
Mostly destined for the German consumer market, EDT e-commerce shipments arrive onboard scheduled carriers, including major Chinese airline clients of FCS in Frankfurt.
Frankfurt Cargo Services (FCS), a subsidiary of Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS
Hactl commences stage two of intelligent cargo thermal detection system implementation
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has begun Phase 2 of the implementation of its intelligent cargo thermal detection system at SuperTerminal 1. This is another important step forward in aviation security as the company continues to leverage technology to create a safer, more secure and more sustainable business.
The first phase of the project commenced in December 2023, which enabled Hactl to scan cargo for exceptional temperatures immediately before it was loaded onto aircraft. Under the latest Phase 2, the capabilities of the project have been further extended. Now, in another world first, Hactl is using the system to scan bulk cargo during
cargo acceptance – providing a double layer of protection to our valuable assets, i.e. the SuperTerminal 1 facility, terminal users, customers, staff and air cargoes.
The intelligent cargo thermal detection system works by combining advanced thermal imaging, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to overcome the limitations of existing thermal energy monitoring techniques.
It monitors the temperatures of different cargo in real-time, quickly identifying any abnormal conditions (e.g. fire hazard from lithium battery cargo) and thereby triggering alerts. Through early detection of
Menzies Aviation announces bold progress against its ‘All In’ sustainability commitments
Menzies Aviation has made significant strides under its ‘All In’ sustainability strategy, as highlighted in its 2024 Annual Review & Sustainability Report.
In a landmark achievement, Menzies became the first major aviation services provider to have its net-zero targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), marking a key step toward its 2045 net-zero goal.
The company added over 850 electric Ground Support Equipment (GSE) units in 2024, reaching 22% electrification globally, now at 24% in 2025 and 50% in Europe. Seventeen stations operate with more than 50% electric GSE, and nine exceed 70%.
Menzies also introduced new goals: zero waste to landfill in cargo by end-2026 and a 10% cut in paper use by 2025.
Sustainability efforts are delivering clear results. Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions intensity per $1,000 revenue dropped to 0.04 (from 0.06 in 2022), and emissions per employee fell 19% to 2.36 tCO₂e. Renewable energy use rose 278% year-on-year.
On diversity, Menzies achieved 25% female representation in senior leadership, meeting its 2025 target, and raised mid-level representation to 29%, progressing toward its 40% goal by 2033.
Oman Air Cargo confirms European ground handling network
Oman Air has appointed CHI Aviation Handling as its new ground handling agent (GHA) at Frankfurt Airport, Germany, effective from 1st July 2025, at Air Cargo Europe 2025, Munich.
In addition, Oman Air Cargo chose to extend existing agreements with four other GHAs, confirming its ground handling network across five European airports.
Mike Duggan, Head of Cargo at Oman Air Cargo, said the contract renewals and new signing reflect the airline’s commitment to high service standards. He noted the importance of strong ground handler
The company also saw a 5.5% improvement partnerships as the carrier expands in Europe.
The GHAs renewing their contracts with Oman Air are: Swissport at London Heathrow, UK; Cargogate at Munich Airport, Germany; WFS/ société de fret et de services (SFS) at Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport, France; and Cargologic at Zurich Airport, Switzerland.
Dominik Mißkampf, Managing Director of Cargogate & CHI Aviation, highlighted the ongoing trust and growth in their partnership with Oman Air.
Duncan Watson, Cargo Commercial
any suspicious temperatures in cargo, the system significantly reduces subsequent potential risks and losses faced by airlines, cargo handlers and airports.
Hactl’s next step in developing the intelligent cargo thermal detection system will be implementing the same level of scrutiny for export pre-packed cargo at its acceptance.
in voluntary staff turnover and logged over six million hours of employee training. Safety has improved significantly since 2022, with a 59% drop in major injuries and a 49% rise in hazard reporting, highlighting the impact of sustained investment in safety and leadership training.
Director at Swissport GB, expressed pride in renewing their long-term partnership with Oman Air.
Laurent Bernard, VP France Cargo at WFS, said contract extensions reflect strong customer relationships and solid performance, and he’s proud to expand their partnership with Oman Air.
CEVA Logistics announces new strategic warehouse in Singapore
CEVA Logistics broke ground on a new warehouse in Singapore to further develop its comprehensive logistics hub in the region. Joining nearby CEVA sites, including two fully automated warehouses, the new multi-customer warehouse will anchor CEVA’s western Singapore logistics campus.
Located in the established Jurong Industrial Estate in western Singapore, the facility
will cover approximately 143,000 square meters, making it one of the largest facilities in the country when fully operational in 2027. CEVA will occupy nearly 40,000 square meters of the site, increasing CEVA’s total warehouse footprint to 370,000 square meters and positioning CEVA as the second largest Contract Logistics player in the country.
CEVA supports a wide variety of industries through its contract logistics solutions, including aerospace, technology, healthcare, luxury and beauty and consumer and retail. The new warehouse strategically creates a connected network of logistics sites in western Singapore that will better serve
APL Logistics has opened a 32,000 sqm facility in North Jakarta’s KBN Marunda Industrial Zone to support Indonesia’s growing role in global trade. The “APL Logistics Marunda Flow Center” is strategically located near key transport routes, including Tanjung
Priok Port (less than 10 km away), Kampung Bandan rail station, and Soekarno–Hatta International Airport.
Plans are underway to introduce a barge service from Marunda to Tanjung Priok, aimed at reducing road congestion and emissions. “This aligns with our sustainability principles,” said Dileepa Dissanayake, Director of Country Operations for Indonesia.
The site is LEED Silver-certified and features energy-efficient elements such as solar panels (powering 10% of operations), translucent roofing, and automated HVAC systems. Built with locally sourced materials, the facility reflects APL Logistics’ broader
DHL Group partners with Shopify to accelerate cross-border shipping worldwide
DHL Group expanded its partnership with Shopify to make it easier for merchants to ship their products around the world. This collaboration is set to benefit millions of Shopify merchants by providing a faster, simpler, and more efficient way to connect
with DHL’s extensive network for both domestic and cross-border shipping.
With DHL pre-integrated into the Shopify Shipping platform, sellers worldwide can access DHL’s global network and shipping solutions with just a few clicks. Sellers on Shopify will no longer need to onboard a logistics provider independently, so that they can streamline operations and reduce administrative burdens. Also, the DHL integration helps sellers manage complex customs, legal, and administrative tasks.
“Customs, duties, and finding a reliable delivery partner can be complex without expert help,” said Katja Busch, CCO at DHL. “Our partnership with Shopify lets merchants easily access DHL’s global
CEVA customers, leveraging synergies in innovation and technology, such as CEVA’s two wholly owned, highly automated facilities nearby, which deploy multi-shuttle and picking combination automation systems.
As part of CEVA’s commitment to “Acting for Planet,” the warehouse is situated in a building that will have a Green Mark Platinum certification. Powered by renewable energy generated by a seven megawatt-peak solar power generation system, this facility is expected to meet most of its power needs and significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The new warehouse will also be operated in line with CEVA’s sustainable logistics strategy and incorporate energy-efficient solutions and recycling projects to promote a circular economy.
environmental goals and commitment to community development, creating over 100 local jobs.
In terms of operations, the Flow Center features cutting-edge automation, including gantry-mounted scanners that track cargo in real time and PO scanners to detect order discrepancies. With 6,800 racking positions and a 20,000 CBM capacity, the facility also includes 42 docks, parking for 100 trucks, and space for up to 300 containers.
“This is a world-class investment,” said Azfar Khan, Regional VP for Southeast Asia. “It reflects our belief in Indonesia’s future and our commitment to sustainable growth.”
APL Logistics is also planning expansions across Java Island, further supporting trade growth through strategic investment in infrastructure, technology, and talent.
network and services, making international shipping hassle-free.”
Harley Finkelstein, Shopify President, added: “With DHL as a pre-integrated partner for Shopify Shipping, we’re simplifying fulfilment and helping merchants scale globally through one seamless platform.”
The solution will continue rolling out worldwide in 2025 and 2026.
The DHL integration on Shopify is now live in the US and Germany. In the US, it supports cross-border e-commerce with “Delivered Duty Paid” (DDP) shipping, covering all customs and tax costs upfront to avoid surprise fees for customers.
Throughout 2025 and 2026, DHL shipping options on Shopify will gradually be rolled out to other major consumer markets in Europe, the Americas, and the Asia-Pacific region.
Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus partner to bring blended-wing-body aircraft to commercial air freight
Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus announced a strategic partnership to study the environmental, economic, and operational impact of integrating Natilus’s hyperefficient blended-wing-body aircraft into commercial air logistics operations.
Leveraging its knowledge of the air logistics industry, Kuehne+Nagel will collaborate with Natilus to explore the operational feasibility of implementing its aircraft within the industry, focusing on route modelling, environmental impact assessment, operational cost analysis, and engagement with the aviation industry.
The first to commercialise blended-wingbody design, Natilus is developing a family of aircraft designed to unlock improved aviation economics by reducing fuel
consumption by 30% while increasing payload capability by 40%. Together, the companies will assess how blended-wingbody aircraft will operate within existing fleets to improve logistics efficiency, enhance service offerings, and reduce carbon emissions in freight forwarding.
Kuehne+Nagel is actively exploring opportunities to implement more sustainable business practices for its customers. The logistics partner for 400,000 customers worldwide, Kuehne+Nagel is pursuing innovations, such as looking into new airframe designs to reduce the environmental as well as the economic impact of air freight.
Committed to delivering a comprehensive assessment of the potential CO2e emissions
New Singapore office brings Kardex intralogistics expertise to Southeast Asia
Intralogistics specialist Kardex has opened a new 300 m² office in Singapore’s Nordic European Centre, strengthening its Southeast Asia presence amid rising demand for scalable material handling and storage automation.
The office launch on May 6 featured speeches, a ribbon cutting, live demos of the AutoStore ASRS and Kardex’s Wearable Task Assistant (WTA), and traditional blessings including a Lion Dance and a pineapple offering for good fortune. The event welcomed guests, including Swiss Ambassador Frank Grütter and Swiss Chamber of Commerce representatives.
The new space houses a 15-person team across sales, business development,
marketing, LCS, and software, with plans for future growth and collaboration.
Kardex’s Singapore office offers customers an immersive, hands-on experience of its advanced intralogistics technologies. It features working demos of Kardex’s Shuttle Vertical Lift Module (VLM), the WTA, a fully operational AutoStore system, and Kardex’s in-house-developed software such as the Intuitive Picking Assistant (IPA) and WES. These tools let customers validate concepts, test setups, and collaborate with experts to optimise their automation strategies across various picking environments.
As the fastest-growing global AutoStore partner, Kardex serves customers in over 30 countries. The Singapore hub will play a key
Lödige Industries in Asia expands presence with new branch office in South Korea
Loedige Asia Limited announced the opening of its new branch office in Seoul, the capital of South Korea. This strategic expansion highlights the company’s strong commitment to the South Korean market for advanced material handling solutions, reinforcing its broader mission to support innovative projects and strengthen customer relationships throughout the Asia Pacific region.
“Our new branch in Seoul represents our unwavering commitment to the South Korean market and our dedication to delivering cutting-edge material handling
solutions,” said Nicholas Tripptree, Managing Director for Asia-Pacific at Lödige Industries. “We are excited about the opportunities this development brings and look forward to contributing to the growth of the local community.”
This expansion enhances the company’s ability to serve new markets and meet the needs of a growing customer base in South Korea. It also builds on over two decades of dedicated service and notable achievements across the Asia-Pacific region.
With offices in Hong Kong, Singapore,
saved, Kuehne+Nagel and Natilus will partner with select air freight carriers to demonstrate the benefits of complementing existing fleets with blended-wing-body aircraft.
Kardex aims to become the region’s preferred automation partner by building a strong local presence, fostering partnerships, and delivering innovation and reliability. With growing teams in Singapore and Beijing, the company is well-positioned to expand its footprint and lead intralogistics transformation across Asia.
Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Malaysia, Australia and now in South Korea, Lödige Industries is serving its clients all over the Asia-Pacific region, being recognised in the industry as a specialist in the development and maintenance of automated logistics solutions. role in accelerating automation adoption in Southeast Asia.
FedEx and SingPost collaborate to expand parcel drop-off points at post offices
Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) and Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) have expanded their collaboration to make international shipping more accessible for customers across Singapore. FedEx
parcel drop-off services are now available at all SingPost post offices nationwide and POPStop@Tampines MRT, increasing acceptance points from six to 43.
This nationwide rollout follows a successful pilot program launched in September 2023 at six SingPost POPStop counters: Tampines, Punggol, Marine Parade, Woodlands, Raffles Place, and Jurong. The positive response from customers during the pilot period underscored the demand for greater convenience and accessibility in international shipping.
Through this expanded collaboration, customers can now drop off their FedEx parcels at any SingPost post office’s POPStop counters
Cainiao opens new distribution centre for top Brazilian express firm, boosting sorting efficiency 7x
Cainiao has launched a national-level automated distribution centre in São Paulo, Brazil, for a leading cross-border express delivery firm, boosting parcel sorting efficiency by seven times.
Previously reliant on manual sorting, the company struggled to keep pace with growing
The centre is equipped with Cainiao’s intelligent sorting and digital operation systems, capable of processing nearly one million parcels daily.
and POPStop@Tampines MRT. Parcels are then transferred to FedEx daily, streamlining the delivery process and enhancing service efficiency, particularly for cross-border shipments. No additional paperwork or charges are required.
This initiative is part of FedEx’s ongoing efforts to expand access points and embed greater flexibility into its service offerings through strategic collaborations. With the addition of SingPost outlets, FedEx now offers over 410 drop-off locations across Singapore, including SingPost’s Parcel Santa lockers located in condominium developments.
Since the start of the pilot with SingPost, FedEx has seen steady and growing usage of the drop-off service, reflecting strong demand for more accessible international shipping options across Singapore.
It features a double-layer AI-powered sorting machine tailored to local needs, supporting over 300 destinations and offering functions like weight and volume detection and 99.9% accuracy in package recognition. The system complies with European CE standards and integrates real-time dashboards and analytics for enhanced supply chain visibility.
Compared to manual operations, the new system cuts operational costs by 40% while significantly improving sorting accuracy and productivity. Cainiao also worked with local partners, contributing to job creation in the area.
As China sets the pace in logistics innovation, Cainiao is leading the charge globally with its inhouse R&D and expansive logistics network. Its L4 autonomous delivery vehicles now operate in over 30 regions across China. Worldwide, Cainiao’s automation and digitalisation technologies have been implemented in more than 600 locations across 28 countries, helping logistics partners streamline operations with scalable, tech-driven solutions.
UPS enhances service in Johor to accelerate global delivery
UPS has enhanced its services in Johor in a move that significantly reduces delivery
times and boosts global connectivity for UPS customers across the state.
The new operation, which consists of a bonded warehouse at Senai International Airport and a package centre in Senai, is located in one of Johor’s leading manufacturing and industry clusters and at the heart of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).
It means imports and exports to Johor from countries across Asia Pacific can now enjoy next-day delivery, while imports and exports from Europe and the U.S. will arrive in as little as two business days. This is a time saving of one business day, facilitated by improvements in connectivity between Johor and Singapore’s Changi Airport.
The new Johor operation underscores UPS’s continued commitment to supporting businesses in Malaysia by providing better access to the company’s world-class integrated global logistics network.
This is the latest in a series of investments by UPS in its Malaysia network. In 2024, the company introduced a service enhancement to allow deliveries from Johor to over 50 countries across the Americas to be completed in as little as two business days. Later in the year, UPS also announced a partnership with Ninja Van to provide UPS’s international express services at any of Ninja Van Malaysia’s 52 stores across Klang Valley.
parcel volumes driven by increased ChinaBrazil trade. The new facility now serves as its main sorting hub in Brazil and a key logistics node in South America.
HAECO welcomes HKSAR Government’s announcement on admission of skilled trade professionals
HAECO welcomes the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government’s announcement regarding a new channel for skilled trade professionals. Starting 30 June 2025, individuals from outside Hong Kong will be able to apply for entry to fill positions in eight skilled trades experiencing acute manpower shortages, including aircraft maintenance technicians.
Peter Murton, Chief Executive Officer of HAECO Hong Kong, said: “HAECO fully supports the Hong Kong Government’s proactive initiatives to allow young and experienced non-degree professionals, as specified in the Technical Professional List, to come to Hong Kong. This move, highlighted in the Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address, addresses the pressing need for skilled tradespeople.”
“This new channel is set to attract talented individuals with recognised aircraft engineering qualifications and relevant experience, contributing to a sustainable supply of skilled aircraft maintenance technicians. This will not only support the
growth of HAECO Group but also bolster the long-term development of the aviation industry in Hong Kong,” Murton added.
The new channel is anticipated to serve as a vital pipeline for global aviation talent, helping to alleviate the labour shortage in the industry that has emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
ST Engineering secures multi-year LEAP-1A maintenance contract with Air Cairo
ST Engineering announced that its Commercial Aerospace business has secured a five-year maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) contract with Air Cairo, a new customer, to support the LEAP-1A engines that power its Airbus A320neo fleet. Under this contract, ST Engineering will provide quick-turn repair and Performance Restoration Shop Visit (PRSV) services at its engine MRO facility in Singapore. The first engine is expected to be inducted in mid2025.
Captain Ahmed Shanan, CEO of Air Cairo, said partnering with ST Engineering, a global leader in engine overhaul, strengthens their commitment to safety, reliability, and operational excellence for their growing Airbus A320neo fleet.
He added that ST Engineering’s world-class maintenance will reduce downtime, boost performance, and support their network expansion for efficient regional air travel.
Tay Eng Guan, Head of Engine Services at ST Engineering, said, “This contract reflects growing trust in our LEAP engine MRO expertise and marks a key step in expanding our support for Middle Eastern operators.
Headquartered in Hong Kong, HAECO is confident that this initiative will strengthen the region’s position as a world-leading aviation hub, particularly with the opportunities presented by the ThreeRunway System and the forthcoming opening of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Terminal 2.
We look forward to providing Air Cairo and others in the region with high-quality, valueadded services.”
ST Engineering is the first independent MRO in Asia to be a designated Premier MRO
provider in CFM’s LEAP open ecosystem. In 2024, it began LEAP-1A and -1B engine testing in Singapore and is now expanding to offer PRSV and full MRO services to meet rising demand.
NEWS - FREIGHT FORWARDERS
Kuehne+Nagel partners with cargo.one for global digital airline connectivity
Kuehne+Nagel, the world’s largest freight forwarder, has entered a global partnership with cargo.one, the leading digital air freight platform, to enhance its air freight procurement and sales capabilities. By integrating cargo. one’s Offer & Book API Suite, Kuehne+Nagel gains seamless e-booking access to dozens
more airlines and general sales agents across the globe.
With cargo.one’s API Suite, Kuehne+Nagel significantly expands its digital connectivity, enhancing its proprietary air freight booking platform, CB Air, while leveraging cargo.one’s rapidly growing airline network and real-time connectivity. This partnership complements Kuehne+Nagel’s direct airline integrations, strengthening its digital procurement and booking capabilities.
Kuehne+Nagel will benefit from cargo.one’s continuous data quality assurance, expanding airline partnerships, and expert support. By harnessing advanced digital access to dozens of airlines, the company aims to deliver faster, more accurate quotes and a
frictionless booking experience, driving better customer service, operational efficiency, and more competitive pricing while setting new standards in digital air freight.
Holger Ketz, SVP at Kuehne+Nagel, said the company aims to digitise 85% of air waybills and that partnering with cargo.one strengthens airline connectivity within their CB Air platform, boosting service and efficiency.
Moritz Claussen, cargo.one’s Co-CEO, said they’re proud to support Kuehne+Nagel’s digital strategy by enhancing agility and customer experience.
Kuehne+Nagel’s partnership with cargo.one enhances its host-to-host API connections, raising procurement and sales standards with superior connectivity. With over 50 direct carrier links, cargo.one strengthens Kuehne+Nagel’s infrastructure, simplifies workflows, and reduces operational complexity.
Cargolux and AIT Worldwide Logistics sign historic SAF deal
Cargolux and global freight forwarding partner AIT Worldwide Logistics have signed the largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) deal in their history, in collaboration with Microsoft, for the transportation of their
server racks (Microsoft Cloud Logistics). This groundbreaking partnership will result in a saving of 66,000 tonnes of CO2e over three years, between 2025 and 2027.
The SAF, produced and delivered by Valero Marketing & Supply Company Diamond Green Diesel LLC, is based on used cooking oil and tallow – without palm oil or any derivatives – ensuring an ethical and sustainable supply chain. It is added to Cargolux’s fuel inventory at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston (IAH).
Building on their commitment to responsible operations, Cargolux and AIT are utilising the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) Registry to ensure a transparent and credible process for tracking and retiring
China Airlines launches digital booking on WebCargo by Freightos
Starting in June, thousands of freight forwarders will have instant access to China Airlines’ rates, capacity, and eBookings across a network of 85 aircraft serving 192 destinations in 29 countries.
Forwarders can now digitally search, quote and book shipments with China Airlines directly through WebCargo’s booking platform, with live integration to the leading rate management and quoting platform. Freight forwarders can even book directly from their transportation management systems (TMS) where these are integrated with WebCargo.
The initial rollout will span major hubs across the United States, Canada, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Japan, along
SAF claims. This collaboration strengthens accountability in sustainable aviation, with the neat SAF itself certified under EU/ CORSIA standards.
Colin Todd, General Manager at Microsoft, emphasised the importance of collaboration to boost SAF production and reduce emissions cost-effectively across the transport ecosystem. Chelsea Lamar, AIT’s VP of Global Sustainability, highlighted the three-year SAF deal with Cargolux as key to Microsoft Cloud’s emission goals and a model for future partnerships. Domenico Ceci, Cargolux EVP Sales & Marketing, stressed the company’s commitment to sustainability despite industry challenges and praised the milestone achieved with AIT.
with 14 destinations throughout Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. In future phases, WebCargo Pay instant payment will be available for China Airlines bookings, enabling forwarders to manage bookings and payments in one streamlined workflow. This integration will include general cargo, express rates and contract rates.
“Digital transformation is a key pillar of China Airlines’ strategy to better serve our forwarder partners through real-time access to our capacity and rates,” said Eddy Liu, Senior Vice President, China Airlines. “By joining Freightos’ digital platform, we’re meeting our customers where they are, as part of our commitment to simplify air cargo and exceed customer expectations in a digital-first world.”
Freightos announced that China Airlines, a top-15 air cargo carrier, will be launching on Freightos’ WebCargo and 7LFreight platforms.
Thai Airways strengthens Nordic presence with HWF by ECS Group as GSSA in Sweden and Denmark
Thai Airways has appointed ECS Group, via HWF Scandinavia and Finland, as its exclusive GSSA in Sweden and Denmark from May 15, 2025. The move highlights Thai’s confidence in ECS’s local expertise and aims to boost cargo growth in Northern Europe.
From Scandinavia, Thai Airways operates daily direct services from Stockholm (Airbus A350) and Copenhagen (Boeing 777) to Bangkok, providing seamless connections to the Asia-Pacific region, including multiple daily flights to Australia and major Southeast Asian markets. This robust schedule ensures reliable uplift capacity, speed, and efficiency for customers moving everything
from pharmaceuticals and perishables to high-value electronics and VUN (vulnerable) cargo.
HWF will oversee sales and customer service, offering more than booking with local insights and tailored strategies for Nordic shippers. Backed by ECS Group’s global support, Thai Airways stays agile and responsive to market needs.
ECS Group’s digital edge, powered by CargoTech, further enhances this partnership. With smart tools for pricing, real-time data tracking, performance analytics, and booking optimisation, Thai Airways’ cargo customers in the region can
expect streamlined processes, enhanced visibility, and more informed decisionmaking every step of the way.
This renewed partnership between Thai Airways and ECS Group is a testament to their shared commitment to performance, powered by local expertise and global reach, and positions them strongly for continued success in the Nordic air cargo market.
Security and compliance top priorities for GSSAs reveals Awery poll of FEDAGSA membership
Data security and regulatory compliance are critical for General Sales and Service Agents (GSSAs) investing in digital platforms, according to a recent poll conducted by Awery Aviation Software during a session with the Federation of Airline General Sales and Service Agents (FEDAGSA).
Held during the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Dubai in March 2025, the poll gathered over 200 responses from FEDAGSA members to assess current and future digital needs. The results showed that protecting company data remains a top priority.
“Given the rise in cyberattacks and data breaches across the supply chain, it’s more important than ever to ensure systems are secure,” said Tristan Koch, Chief Commercial Officer at Awery. “We’ve gone beyond standard requirements to ensure our platform exceeds industry benchmarks.”
Awery’s systems are certified under SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, and ISO 9001 and are regularly tested for vulnerabilities to ensure robust protection.
Founded in 1991, FEDAGSA represents GSSAs across more than 70 countries. Secretary General Glenn Shires emphasised
the importance of data security in today’s digital landscape. “Technology plays a vital role in improving operations, but not at the cost of security. Our members rely on trusted providers who prioritise data integrity.”
Awery, an affiliate member of FEDAGSA, was named Best Aviation Software Provider in a 2024 member survey.
Aside from data protection, the poll found that GSSAs also value platforms that offer increased efficiency, cost savings, improved customer service, and scalability—key elements driving future digital investment.
Mondial Airlines Services GmbH wins Coyne Airways’ Germany GSA
Global GSA Group subsidiary Mondial Airline Services GmbH has been appointed GSA for Coyne Airways in Germany, effective 17 April 2025. The partnership focuses on Coyne’s scheduled freighter services from Frankfurt via Liège to the Caspian region, and flexible connections to the Middle East and Africa.
Coyne operates two weekly Boeing 767 freighter flights from Liège to Tbilisi (TBS) and Yerevan (EVN), with Mondial managing trucking links to and from Frankfurt. Regular cargo includes automotive parts, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and foodstuffs. The contract also supports Coyne’s extensive Gulf network via Sharjah (SHJ) and Dubai (DWC), covering over 30 underserved destinations, including Kabul, Baghdad, Basra, Erbil, Asmara, Juba, and Ndjamena.
“With offices in Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Munich, Stuttgart, and Hamburg, Mondial brings the local expertise and service excellence our customers expect,” said Larry Coyne, CEO of Coyne Airways. “As demand grows in the Caucasus, Middle East, and Africa, Mondial provides the support we need to scale.”
Zafer Aggunduz, CCO of Global GSA Group, said, “Representing Coyne Airways is both an
honour and a testament to our team’s agility and product knowledge. We’re excited to support Coyne’s continued success.”
Global GSA Group CEO Aytekin Saray added, “Coyne exemplifies flexibility and reliability, serving a wide range of cargo types and complex destinations. Mondial is committed to delivering the same level of excellence and adaptability that defines Coyne’s operations.”
Kale Logistics to develop Oman’s National Port Community System
Kale Logistics Solutions, with local partner Novel Muscat, has been awarded a contract by Oman’s MTCIT to develop a National Port Community System to digitalise and streamline cargo operations across ports, airports, land ports, and free zones.
Announced at the Oman Logistics Day celebration in Muscat, Government Ministers from MTCIT stood alongside governmental delegates from the Gulf Cooperation Council and officials from the World Bank to acknowledge the strategic investment.
The NPCS will provide a singular national logistics platform for all modes of transport and will streamline operations across Oman’s transport and logistics sector, facilitating international trade and boosting the state’s business potential.
Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al Busaidi, Acting Head of the Oman Logistics Center at the MTCIT, stated that the Logistics Sector Strategy 2040 is built around four key pillars. The
first is Market Development, which focuses on implementing projects and activities to achieve the targeted share in land, sea, and air transport markets. The second is Trade Facilitation, aimed at a qualitative shift in cargo processing systems across land, sea, and airports, as well as supply and logistics chains. The third is Enhancing Employment and Omanisation, which emphasises the Ministry’s initiatives in labour market governance, regulation, training, capacitybuilding, and increasing Omanisation within the logistics sector. The fourth is Logistics Technologies, which seeks to encourage companies in the logistics sector to adopt advanced technologies to boost their competitiveness in regional markets.
Phase I of Kale’s NPCS will introduce the platform to Oman’s ports, then subsequently expand its operational capacities to include all modes of Omani cargo transport.
CargoTech offers digital capacity win-win to airline partners
With freighter production delays, ageing fleets, and cargo demand outpacing supply, airlines are under pressure to optimise available capacity. Strategic partnerships and alliances can offer a way forward, and CargoTech’s suite of solutions helps carriers source capacity, enhance interline networks, and boost load factors in real time.
Capacity constraints have worsened in recent years due to e-commerce growth and delays in MRO and aircraft production. Passenger network recovery hasn’t translated into cargo relief, as belly space often goes to baggage, especially on leisure routes with low cargo demand.
“Freighter delays and rising demand for e-commerce and high-value goods have made capacity planning more difficult,” said Michael Teoh, Head of Strategy at CargoTech.
Alliances and Block Space Agreements can ease capacity issues, but they come with operational challenges, such as coordinating between multiple ground handlers and incompatible digital systems. “Digital integration, access to partner capacity, and
WiseTech Global to acquire e2open in US$2.1B deal to expand global logistics platform
approximately US$2.1 billion. The acquisition is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The move marks a significant step in WiseTech’s strategy to become the operating system for global logistics. E2open, based in Texas and operating in over 20 countries, offers a cloud-based connected supply chain platform that tracks more than 18 billion transactions annually and connects over 500,000 partners across manufacturing, logistics, distribution, and retail.
The acquisition will complement WiseTech’s core CargoWise platform, adding capabilities
full use of available space are key,” added Cédric Millet, President of CargoTech.
“CargoTech provides the digital backbone and expert insights to help airlines remain agile and profitable despite today’s space limitations,” Teoh concluded.
in domestic logistics, carrier integration, global trade, and supply chain management. It also expands WiseTech’s total addressable market and customer base, bringing in around 5,600 customers, including over 250 blue-chip companies and major ocean carrier connectivity.
The acquisition supports WiseTech’s strategy to accelerate product development and ecosystem reach through strategic acquisitions. E2open’s platform enhances visibility, cost control, and resilience across supply chains by connecting stakeholders via automation, AI, and real-time data.
Upon closing, the combined company will be well-positioned to serve global shippers, logistics providers, and carriers with a connected, scalable, and intelligent logistics solution.
WiseTech Global, the company behind leading logistics software CargoWise, has announced a binding agreement to acquire U.S.-based e2open for US$3.30 per share in cash, valuing the deal at an enterprise value of
ACI: Asia Pacific and Middle East Airports commits to capacity optimisation and infrastructure upgrades both on ground and in the air
Airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are bracing for nearly 7% annual air travel growth over the next 25 years. In response, the 2nd ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly in New Delhi adopted a resolution aimed at optimising capacity and developing sustainable infrastructure both on the ground and in the air.
Recognising airports’ role in socioeconomic growth, the resolution reaffirms the commitment to expand and enhance airport infrastructure across two regions that together account for 58% of the global aviation market and host 9 of the world’s 10 fastest-growing aviation markets.
Key commitments include:
• Efficient use of infrastructure: Modernising slot allocation to match evolving market dynamics.
• Advanced air traffic management: Promoting A-CDM and cross-border ATFM to reduce congestion and emissions.
• Infrastructure development: Supporting expansion of runways, terminals, and digital tech.
Pharma.Aero
• Financing: Encouraging PPPs and institutional investment for long-term sustainability.
• Light-handed oversight: Advocating regulatory frameworks that support growth while protecting consumer interests.
• Sustainability and innovation: Integrating green energy, SAF availability, and climate resilience.
• Stakeholder collaboration: Enhancing coordination between airports, airlines, and regulators.
• Global alignment: Promoting international best practices.
SGK Kishore, President of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said infrastructure investment is “critical” for sustainable growth, urging regulatory support and financing diversity. Director General Stefano Baronci added, “A holistic approach is essential—not just physical expansion, but also modernising slot and air traffic systems to maintain growth and minimise environmental impact.”
and TIACA’s joint project leverages air cargo to boost healthcare access and empower agricultural economies
Pharma.Aero and TIACA have launched the Food and Farm for Health initiative to showcase air cargo’s dual role in expanding healthcare access and supporting agricultural economies in low- and middleincome countries. In partnership with the Cool Chain Association (CCA) and the Humanitarian Logistics Association (HLA), the project aims to maximise airfreight’s impact on both public health and local development.
Frank Van Gelder, Secretary General of Pharma.Aero, explained: “This initiative uses air cargo to fly in life-saving medicines and vaccines while flying out perishable products like fruits and flowers to international markets. By filling cargo holds in both directions, we create a cost-efficient trade route that boosts healthcare delivery and empowers local farmers.”
TIACA Chair Steven Polmans emphasised air cargo’s broader role: “From Kenya’s flower
exports to India’s seafood trade, airfreight drives jobs, health, and resilience. Our project affirms the industry’s power to build smarter, more equitable supply chains.”
The project will evaluate global air cargo flows, assess economic impacts, and align findings with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It draws on expertise in pharmaceutical, humanitarian, and temperature-sensitive logistics.
Together, the partners aim to strengthen supply chains and create lasting value for communities worldwide.
CCA board member Ian Buck said, “Balance and partnerships are vital. Aligning healthcare delivery with agricultural trade can create a lasting impact.” HLA CEO George Fenton added, “The last mile remains a challenge in humanitarian logistics. This initiative offers a pathway for sustainable transformation through coordination and innovation.”
Trans Global Projects names Lim Ling Ling Director as it launches Malaysian office
Trans Global Projects (TGP) announced the appointment of Lim Ling Ling as the new Managing Director for Malaysia. This
strategic move is part of TGP’s plan to establish a strong presence in Malaysia, with Ling Ling leading the efforts with an incountry presence.
Lim Ling Ling brings a wealth of experience and expertise to TGP. With over three decades in the project logistics industry, Ling Ling has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of the industry. Prior to joining TGP, Ling Ling held key positions at Megalift Malaysia and has been instrumental in driving significant
projects to success. Ling Ling holds a degree in Accountancy from La Trobe University, Australia, further solidifying her strong foundation in the field.
The new TGP office in Malaysia, located in Shah Alam, the capital city of Selangor, marks a significant milestone for the company. This office will serve as a central hub for TGP’s operations in the region, providing enhanced support to clients and partners, both local and global. The establishment of this office, along with Ling Ling’s appointment, underscores TGP’s commitment to expanding its presence in key markets and delivering exceptional service to its clients.
IATA appoints Sheldon Hee as Regional Vice President for
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the appointment of Sheldon Hee as Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific, effective 1 June 2025.
Based in Singapore, Hee will lead IATA in the Asia-Pacific, a region covering 39 countries and home to 53 IATA member airlines.
Hee brings over 25 years of experience in the airline industry. He has held various management roles at Singapore Airlines in Singapore, Japan, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Prior to joining IATA, Hee was the airline’s Vice President for
Partnerships and International Relations.
The Asia-Pacific region is estimated to observe the fastest-growing passenger demand in the next 20 years. In 2024, it accounted for a third of global passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), and is projected to contribute more than half of global passenger traffic in the following two decades.
Hee graduated from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University with a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Master of Science.
Luis Gallego Chairs IATA Board
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Luis Gallego, CEO of International Airlines Group (IAG), has assumed his duties as Chair of the IATA Board. His one-year term began at the conclusion of the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, India, on 2 June 2025.
Gallego is the 83rd Chair of the IATA Board on which he has served since 2018. Gallego succeeds IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers, who will
continue to serve on the Board.
Gallego has nearly 30 years of broad experience in the aviation industry. He became IAG’s chief executive in September 2020, joining from Iberia, where he was chairman and chief executive from January 2014. During his tenure at Iberia, he turned the airline around and improved its efficiency, customer service and brand. Before that, Gallego launched Iberia
TIACA announces Roos Bakker to be the Next TIACA Chair, taking over from Steven Polmans
The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) is pleased to announce that Roos Bakker, Manager Business Development and Contract Management at CTSN, will be the next TIACA Chair, leading the Association for the 2026-2027 period. Roos has served as one of two Vice Chairs, together with Emir Pineda, Director, Marketing & Air Service Development Division, Miami International Airport, for the past two years.
Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General said, “Steven has played a key role in transforming
TIACA over the past six years, growing membership and launching key programs like the Sustainability Roadmap and BlueSky. His leadership has been instrumental, and we look forward to working with Roos as she guides TIACA forward.”
Steven Polmans, TIACA Chair, said, “It’s been a privilege to serve as Chair, working with dedicated colleagues to implement our transformation strategy. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and look forward to supporting Roos and the Board in the next phase.”
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He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Oxford.
Express, as chief executive from January 2012, making the new Iberia subsidiary one of the most efficient and punctual airlines in Europe.
Gallego joined Iberia Express from Vueling where he was chief operating officer from 2009, when the airline merged with the lowcost carrier Clickair which he co-founded in 2006. He held various posts at Spanish regional airline Air Nostrum between 1997 and 2006
Roos Bakker, Incoming TIACA Chair said, “I’m honoured to step into this role. Following Steven won’t be easy, but with the support of the Board and TIACA team, I’m confident. This is a crucial time for air cargo, and I look forward to helping the industry tackle key challenges ahead.”
The election for the two Vice Chairs is underway and will be announced upon its conclusion.
The term of office for Chair and Vice Chairs will officially commence at the close of the TIACA Air Cargo Forum, to be held in Abu Dhabi, November 3rd – 6th,2025.
Etihad Cargo introduces new regional structure to support network growth
Etihad Cargo has announced a strategic restructuring of its European commercial team into five areas to drive deeper customer alignment, streamline regional support and reinforce its position across key markets. These changes come in response to sustained growth and the expansion of Etihad Airways’ network and capacity offering across Europe.
The five new European regions led by Rainer Krammer, Regional Manager Europe and Americas, include a Southwest Europe region covering France, Spain and Portugal led by Eric Lamare, the newly appointed Area Manager based in Paris,
UK and Ireland led by Michael Mackenzie, Northwest Europe covering Belgium, Netherlands and Denmark led by Karim Grinate, Central Europe covering Germany, Austria and Switzerland led by Karim Rakkrouki and Southeast Europe covering Italy, Poland, Czech Republic and Greece led by Lorenzo Donato. The new regional split ensures market leadership for both online and offline stations and direct customer engagement in key markets.
Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer, said the restructuring supports Etihad Cargo’s strong growth in Europe by aligning operations with market demand. It brings teams closer
Lufthansa Cargo appoints new COO and CFO/CHRO
Effective July 1, 2025, Frank Bauer, currently CFO and Labour Director at Lufthansa Cargo,
will take over as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Gregor Schleussner, currently Head of Finance, Controlling & Accounting at Eurowings, will succeed him as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), and Labour Director, joining the Executive Board.
Frank Bauer began his career at Lufthansa Cargo in 2007 after completing his engineering studies. He later worked for Jade Cargo in China before returning to Deutsche Lufthansa AG in 2012. He held several leadership roles, including Head of Internal Audit, Executive Board member at Eurowings, and Head of Group Controlling and Risk Management. Since August 2023, Bauer has overseen Finance and Human Resources at Lufthansa Cargo.
to customers, enabling faster, more agile, and customer-focused logistics solutions.
The new European regional organisation reflects Etihad Cargo’s commitment to agility, customer-centricity and operational excellence across its global network. Etihad Cargo has recently introduced additional capacity to Europe with its summer schedule, with 660 tonnes of weekly widebody capacity and 200 tonnes of additional weekly freighter capacity.
Gregor Schleussner joined Lufthansa in 2006 through the ProTeam management program after studying International Finance. He has held various roles in product management, sales, and investor relations. In 2015, he moved to Corporate Controlling at Deutsche Lufthansa AG, where he was responsible for managing business performance across several group companies, including Lufthansa Cargo. From 2017, he led the CEO Office at Lufthansa Group and has served as Head of Finance, Controlling & Accounting at Eurowings since 2021.
In his new role, Schleussner will oversee Finance & Controlling, Human Resources, Legal, Corporate & Political Affairs, Information Management, and Supply Management & Infrastructure at Lufthansa Cargo.
Kuehne+Nagel appoints Marcus Claesson as Chief Information Officer
The Board of Directors of Kuehne+Nagel International AG appoints Marcus Claesson to its Management Board as of September 1, 2025. Claesson will assume responsibility for the Group’s global information technology and succeed Martin Kolbe, who will retire on October 1, 2025, after 20 years onthe Kuehne+Nagel Management Board.
Marcus Claesson, a Swedish national born in 1971, brings over 25 years of experience in international IT leadership roles. Since 2019, he has served as Chief Information Officer (CIO) at DAX-listed Daimler Truck AG in Stuttgart, Germany. Prior to that, he was responsible for IT Commercial Vehicles at Daimler AG, also in Stuttgart. In 2007, Claesson joined Electrolux in Stockholm, Sweden. From 2010 to 2016, he held the role of CIO of Electrolux AB and CEO of Electrolux IT Solutions AB. From 1997 to
2007, he worked at Linde AG in Munich and Wiesbaden, Germany. Claesson has a degree in Computer Science from the University of Borås, Sweden.
Dr. Joerg Wolle, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kuehne+Nagel International AG, comments: “Kuehne+Nagel stands for strong information technology expertise and is driving digitalisation in logistics. Information technology enhances transparency and efficiency and helps optimise services for our customers. We are pleased to welcome Marcus Claesson, a proven IT executive, to the Management Board. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Martin Kolbe for his outstanding work. He has been instrumental in advancing the development of our IT systems and digitalisation efforts.”
DHL Global Forwarding appoints new Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President of Business Process Optimisation for Asia Pacific
DHL Global Forwarding, the freight specialist of DHL Group, has appointed Björn Müller as Asia Pacific’s Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Senior Vice President of Business Process Optimisation (BPO) effective 1 May 1 2025. He succeeds Lawrence Lee, who retired after 13 successful years with the DHL Group.
Müller joined DHL in 2011 as a Senior Consultant for strategic logistics, IT and finance projects before moving to DHL Global Forwarding as Head of Service Catalogue & Product Excellence in 2015. He later assumed the role of Vice President, Digital Customer Interaction.
In his most recent role as CIO at DHL Freight DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), UK & Ireland, Müller renegotiated major supplier contracts and fostered collaboration across all business and support functions. In 2024, he led the implementation of EVO, the single TMS for all DHL Freight operations across Europe. Wearing a second hat as the Managing Director of Agheera, a telematics solutions provider and subsidiary of the Group, Müller also consistently delivered year-over-year EBIT growth.
Based in Singapore, Müller will report directly to Guido Rietra, CIO, DHL Global Forwarding and Freight, with a dotted line to Frank.
Chapman Freeborn unveils new European cargo team at Air Cargo Europe
Chapman Freeborn announced the latest stage of its strategic European expansion with two key appointments.
After serving nearly 16 years as a specialist charter broker for the business’ automotive clients, and approaching his 25th year at Chapman Freeborn, Isidro Nuñez Oñate has been promoted to Senior Charter Manager, overseeing brokers in the DACH (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) region.
Experienced sales and training lead, Claire Fallon, meanwhile, moves to Supplier Relations Manager – Europe, managing
regional partnerships and strategies across the continent.
This follows a broader restructure of European cargo operations by the air charterer earlier this year, in addition to the appointment of a general sales agent in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, cementing its coverage across the European Union and diversifying its sales base.
The announcement was made at Air Cargo Europe, part of transport logistic, the world’s largest exhibition for the industry that was held from 2-5 June in Munich, Germany.
Global GSA Group appoints Aytekin Saray as CEO
Global GSA Group (GGG) announced the appointment of Aytekin Saray as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic move marks a new milestone in the Group’s 30th anniversary year and reinforces its ambition to become the most agile and forwardthinking GSA in the market.
Aytekin Saray brings deep industry expertise, a strong commercial mindset, and a longstanding history with the company. Having started his airfreight career at Panalpina in 1996, he joined Global Airline Services (now part of Global GSA Group) in 2000, under the mentorship of Ismail Durmaz. Over the years, he played a key role in the Group’s expansion and success, notably as CCO and Managing Director for Central Europe.
The appointment follows several major moves by the Group to elevate its position in the market: the nomination of Zafer
Aggunduz as CCO, the strategic partnership with CargoTech to integrate cutting-edge digital tools, and internal transformations to strengthen its global network. Aytekin Saray’s leadership is expected to further accelerate this momentum.
As Aytekin Saray steps into his new role, Boris Blagojevic will take over as Managing Director of Mondial Airline Services, overseeing operations in Germany, Austria, and Eastern Europe — a region critical to the Group’s continued success and development.
At Global GSA Group, change is not just a response to the market — it’s a driving force. With new energy, new leadership, and a clear vision, the Group is more determined than ever to become the GSA that grows, transforms, and inspires.
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Driving cold chain innovation: How Asia Airfreight Terminal is shaping the future of perishable logistics
by Monina Eugenio
Asia-Pacific’s cold chain logistics market is projected to reach $133.97 billion by 20271, driven by pharmaceutical growth and evolving consumer demands for fresh produce2, according to Allied Market Research.
In a landscape where time and temperature control are critical, Asia Airfreight Terminal (AAT) is emerging as a market leader. Under the leadership of CEO Mike Chew, AAT continues to offer tailored cold chain solutions that address the specific needs of airlines, freight forwarders, and business partners riding on its Hong Kong’s first on-airport end-to-end cold chain facility— COOLPORT—but is also expanding its capabilities with cross- border initiatives to streamline the transport of perishable goods into the Greater Bay Area.
Pioneering cold chain logistics with COOLPORT
The launch of COOLPORT in July 2022 marked a turning point for both AAT and the broader Hong Kong logistics industry. Being ahead of its time, AAT began
planning improvements to its cold chain infrastructure as early as 2019, well before the pandemic spotlighted the fragility of global supply chains. This forward-thinking approach led to the successful development of Hong Kong’s first fully temperaturecontrolled on-airport cold chain centre.
Designed to address long-term trends, such as the growing demand for pharmaceuticals, healthcare devices, and the rise of farm-totable organic produce, COOLPORT was built to meet a clear market need.
“Growing global demand for temperaturesensitive pharmaceuticals such as biologics, vaccines and perishable goods like fresh produce, high-end foods is driving the need for reliable cold chain airfreight, supported by ageing populations, stricter supply chain regulations, and consumer expectations for quality and speed,” says Mike Chew.
What sets COOLPORT apart is its fully integrated, end-to-end temperaturecontrolled system. From the moment cargo is received at air-conditioned truck docks, it moves through a tightly controlled
temperature environment. Breakdown, weighing, X-ray screening, and palletising all occur in sequence within a tightly controlled environment. At no point are shipments exposed to Hong Kong’s humid climate.
Operational efficiency was a key focus from the outset. AAT introduced a fully automated handling system for palletised cargo, secured direct airside access, and implemented dedicated truck docks as well as prioritised handling procedures to significantly reduce transfer times.
The company also worked to meet the highest regulatory and technical standards. COOLPORT has achieved multiple certifications, including IATA CEIV Pharma, GDP Pharma, CEIV Fresh, ISO 22000:2018, and HACCP. These reflect AAT’s commitment to providing compliant, safe, and efficient handling for pharmaceutical and perishable shipments.
Chew highlighted the facility’s location as a strategic advantage: “COOLPORT stands out with its on-airport location with direct access to the airside, which significantly
2 Allied Market Research. (n.d.). Asia-Pacific cold chain logistics market trends | Analysis 2027. Retrieved May 28, 2025, from https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/asia-pacific-cold-chain-logistics-market
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reduces time and minimises exposure risks for temperature-sensitive cargo.”
Overcoming challenges with precision
Launching COOLPORT was no small feat. AAT faced three major challenges: maintaining temperature integrity across all touchpoints, improving operational efficiency, and meeting strict regulatory standards. The team tackled these by integrating cutting-edge refrigeration systems, deploying ultrasonic sensors to ensure performance even in deep-freeze environments, and building a fully climatecontrolled operation from truck docks to storage.
“Through collaboration with tech partners, regulators, and airlines, we transformed these challenges into competitive advantages,” says Chew.
In addition to deep-frozen storage capabilities down to -28°C, COOLPORT features optimised workflows, dedicated truck docks, and direct airside access to reduce dwell times and speed up cargo handling, critical for temperature-sensitive goods like vaccines and fresh produce.
The facility’s green design also reflects AAT’s long-term sustainability goals. COOLPORT uses non-ozone-depleting refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP), along with double doors, air curtains, speed doors, and thermal insulation panels to minimise heat loss and save energy.
COOLPORT’s excellence has not gone unnoticed. The facility has received multiple accolades, including Cold Chain Service Provider of the Year – Asia Pacific at the 10th and 11th Payload Asia Awards. These recognitions underscore AAT’s leadership and innovation in cold chain logistics.
Beyond operational advantages, COOLPORT plays a pivotal role in reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a preferred logistics hub for temperature-sensitive cargo. By offering internationally certified, end-to-end cold chain handling, it strengthens HKIA’s position as a gateway for high-growth sectors like biotech, vaccines, and premium food logistics. It also supports rising demand in e-commerce and cross-border grocery delivery—areas where flawless cold chains are critical. As mainland consumers seek high-quality imports, COOLPORT’s efficiency helps Hong Kong meet that demand faster and more reliably than competing regional hubs.
Scaling impact with Fresh Lane
Building on the success of COOLPORT, AAT expands its impact, leveraging on the latest Fresh Lane scheme—an innovative initiative that connects Hong Kong with the Greater Bay Area via an intermodal airland solution using the Hong Kong-ZhuhaiMacau Bridge. Developed in collaboration with Hong Kong and Mainland Customs, the Airport Authority, and the Zhuhai Municipal Government, Fresh Lane is designed to
As the operator of Hong Kong’s first on-airport fully temperature-controlled cold chain facility–AAT COOLPORT, AAT plays a crucial role in this initiative by serving as the vital temperature-controlled hub that bridges global air cargo flows with the Greater Bay Area markets.
MIKE
CEO Asia Airfreight Terminal
CHEW
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deliver live and fresh goods faster, more securely, and with minimal handling.
“As the operator of Hong Kong’s first onairport fully temperature-controlled cold chain facility–AAT COOLPORT, AAT plays a crucial role in this initiative by serving as the vital temperature-controlled hub that bridges global air cargo flows with the Greater Bay Area markets,” Chew notes.
The Fresh Lane initiative represents a transformative leap in perishable supply chain connectivity for the Greater Bay Area, establishing Hong Kong as the critical nexus between global markets and mainland consumers. By seamlessly integrating Hong Kong International Airport’s global air cargo network with the cross-border efficiency of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, this innovative corridor addresses longstanding challenges in perishable logistics while creating value for businesses and consumers across the region.
In addition, through AAT’s wholly-owned logistics subsidiary, AAS, plans are underway to expand cross-border trucking services to include temperature-controlled options. This will further enhance AAT’s ability to provide a comprehensive end-to-end cold chain solution, supporting premium imports and more efficient export routes within the Greater Bay Area.
“For customers, this means fresher imports like premium seafood reaching
restaurants within hours, while mainland producers gain efficient export routes to global markets. The initiative boosts trade efficiency, reduces spoilage costs, and elevates product quality across the region,” says Chew.
A culture of continuous innovation
Under Mike Chew’s leadership, AAT has embraced innovation not only in infrastructure but also in operations. The company recently upgraded its cargo management system to COSYS+, a secure, cloud-based platform for real-time cargo tracking. The system was adopted from SATS’ global platform, enabling AAT to align with international best practices in digital cargo handling and strengthen its integration with the wider network.
The transition unifies multiple systems into one streamlined portal—accessible via web and mobile—enhancing cybersecurity, realtime visibility, and user experience.
AAT has also replaced RFID with Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) for faster and more precise truck access. The system integrates directly with COSYS+ to optimise dock assignment, reduce waiting times, and improve overall terminal efficiency.
In early 2024, AAT became the first cargo terminal operator in Hong Kong to deploy autonomous electric tractors, further enhancing processing speed while reducing emissions.
“Our commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence ensures AAT remains a trusted partner in the ever-evolving air cargo industry,” Chew affirms.
The road ahead
Looking forward, AAT is focused on expanding its regional footprint and refining its cold chain corridors. Backed by its shareholder, SATS—the world’s largest air cargo handler—and China Merchants Port, AAT benefits from an extensive global network and deep maritime logistics experience.
Chew shares that AAT will “continue to strengthen our collaboration to deliver global end-to-end solutions… [and] optimise intermodal transhipment solutions, offering alternative options to our airline customers and agent partners.”
As the airfreight landscape evolves, AAT— under Mike Chew’s leadership—remains at the forefront by setting new standards in cold chain logistics and reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a regional gateway. Through stateof-the-art facilities, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation, Asia Airfreight Terminal is shaping the future of perishable supply chains across Asia and beyond.
COMPANY
Beyond ground handling: How dnata became cold chain’s most trusted partner
Founded in 1959 in Dubai, dnata (Dubai National Air Travel Agency) has grown from a regional player into one of the world’s largest and most respected air and travel services providers. With operations in 34 countries across six continents, the company now delivers ground handling, cargo, travel, inflight catering, and retail services to airlines and airports worldwide. As a subsidiary of the Emirates Group, dnata has built a global reputation for safety, innovation, and service excellence.
In today’s fast-moving air logistics environment, temperature-sensitive cargo such as pharmaceuticals and perishables demands more than just speed, it requires precision, consistency, and innovation. Few providers understand this better than dnata, which has made strategic investments to become a trusted global partner for cold chain logistics.
As the winner of Cold Chain Service Provider of the Year at the 11th Payload Asia Awards, dnata’s work in this space is gaining industry recognition. According to Guillaume Crozier, Chief Cargo Officer at dnata, the award is a testament to the company’s ongoing efforts to “offer an uncompromised temperaturecontrolled handling and storage solution to airline customers,” backed by flexible infrastructure and tailored handling processes.
Purpose-built for pharma
At the heart of dnata’s cold chain operation is Dubai, a strategic hub that links two-thirds of the world’s population within an eighthour flight. But it’s not just about location— it’s also about infrastructure. The company’s cool chain facilities at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) are IATA CEIV Pharma certified, enabling the
safe, efficient, and compliant handling of pharmaceuticals and vaccines.
“dnata plays a key role in the safe handling of pharmaceuticals and vaccines in Dubai,” says Crozier. “Our facilities include dedicated Deep Freeze and refrigerated storage for health care and life sciences products,” with delivery times that can be as fast as two hours from flight arrival. Dubai’s cool chain facilities were integral in the safe handling of global COVID-19 vaccine transportation. In the year leading up to March 2023, dnata handled nearly 8,000 tonnes of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
Cool investments in the Asia Pacific
The company has also introduced cool dollies in Australia and Singapore, helping maintain product integrity in extreme weather conditions during airside transport. These additions reflect dnata’s broader investment strategy to enhance infrastructure and technology in key markets. “We will continue to enhance our operations and processes to maximise efficiency and deliver the highest value for our customers globally,” Crozier affirms.
Supporting customers post-pandemic
In a volatile global logistics environment, dnata is focusing on resilience and standardisation to meet shifting customer needs. “Our approach centres on process standardisation and the use of a unified platform across our network,” explains
Crozier. “This enables us to build a strong operational baseline, which is essential for absorbing variability between stations.”
He adds that while some locations may see surges in cargo volume, others may face reductions. The goal is to stabilise network performance and maintain quality despite unpredictable conditions. A key part of this strategy is ensuring data maturity across the ecosystem. “It takes each and every stakeholder to have the same level of maturity when it comes to their data architecture, data capability, and data governance. This is still very diverse, and that’s where we keep working hard to provide solutions to SMEs that may not have such data capability.”
Crozier points to Calogi, dnata’s airport community system, as one such enabler: “It is exactly one of the solutions that any ecosystem would need to rise to those challenges.”
The digital backbone
Innovation doesn’t stop at hardware. In 2024, dnata launched a new generation of Calogi, offering real-time visibility and expanded services in third-party logistics and e-commerce fulfilment. In Dubai, dnata has deployed autonomous drones within its warehouses, resulting in “a transformative effect on our efficiency levels, and reducing rack processing times.”
At a data level, the company has developed a real-time data warehouse that is AI-ready and supports advanced analytics and automation. “With robust data governance in place, we can effectively leverage our data,” says Crozier. To support this, dnata has rolled out a customised data literacy framework, giving its teams the tools to make smarter, data-informed decisions.
As part of its digitalisation roadmap, dnata is also investing in computer vision technology to optimise load plans and improve efficiency. “Our airline customers are always looking for optimisation and greater revenue in their aircraft,” says Crozier. “They want their ground handling agent to optimise their load as much as possible, but for that, you need to have the right technology to do it.”
dnata has already implemented this technology in Singapore, in partnership with Speedcargo, with Etihad Cargo as its first customer. The rollout is expanding to other locations, including the UK, UAE, and dnata’s new facility in Amsterdam. This
system will allow near real-time visibility of cargo dimensions and weight, a key enabler for future track-and-trace capabilities.
Training for the future
Alongside digital transformation, dnata is heavily focused on workforce development. The company uses Virtual Reality (VR) training tools for ground handling teams and continuously updates its dnata Training Management System to uphold and exceed safety standards across global operations.
“A prominent feature of the ‘One dnata’ identity is its continual focus on safety and security,” Crozier explains. “We are committed to achieving the highest possible safety and security standards for our customers, employees and facilities.”
A sustainable path forward
Sustainability is now part of dnata’s operational DNA. New facilities—including the upcoming dnata Cargo City Amsterdam and the dnata Logistics warehouse in Dubai—are designed to meet BREEAM and LEED certification standards. dnata is also the first ground handler to be IEnvA certified in both the UAE and Amsterdam, further demonstrating its commitment to environmentally responsible operations. What’s next for dnata
Looking ahead, dnata is preparing to launch dnata Express, a state-of-the-art e-commerce facility at Dubai International Airport, which will be commissioned later this year. The company also plans to expand its cargo footprint in Australia
Chief Cargo Officer, dnata
and is contributing its expertise to the development of the future Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport, expected to redefine cargo handling in the region.
“We’re excited about what lies ahead and proud to operate in a country with visionary leaders who recognise the aviation sector as a key enabler of national growth and success,” says Crozier.
As air cargo continues to evolve, dnata is positioning itself not just as a service provider, but as a solution-driven partner redefining the future of cold chain and cargo handling.
GUILLAUME CROZIER
CEVA Logistics raises the bar in healthcare cold chain logistics across Asia
From life-saving vaccines to sensitive biologics, healthcare logistics demands precision, reliability, and, above all, care. It’s a sector where a single misstep—be it a temperature excursion or customs delay—can have serious consequences. For CEVA Logistics, the answer lies in more than just moving cargo. It’s about creating resilient, transparent, and sustainable supply chains that prioritise the patient’s needs.
“Each shipment has a direct impact on a life,” says Eric Ten Kate, Global Sector Leader Healthcare, CEVA Logistics.
Operating across 170 countries, CEVA has established an extensive cold chain network that supports the end-to-end flow of healthcare products. In the Asia Pacific region, with approximately 25,000 employees, its purpose-built facilities for healthcare logistics are certified to the highest standards, including GDP and GMP. These specialised sites are situated in China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.
CEVA sets itself apart with a distinct, patient-focused approach. At the centre of this is its CEVA FORPATIENTS platform, which brings together air, ocean, ground, and contract logistics, all underpinned by the understanding that each healthcare shipment contributes to a person’s well-being.
“In Asia Pacific, we customise healthcare logistics solutions that support healthcare systems by ensuring the timely and efficient movement, storage, and distribution of essential resources like medical devices, equipment, pharmaceuticals, and supplies,” says Ten Kate. “We pay meticulous care and attention in handling high-value and temperature-sensitive products, prioritising safety and efficacy, and ensuring compliance with regulations.”
Managing complexity with confidence
Transporting high-value, temperaturesensitive healthcare products over long distances presents a number of challenges, from maintaining temperature stability and complying with regulations to navigating geopolitical risks and coordinating multiple stakeholders. For CEVA, overcoming these challenges starts with a robust infrastructure and a culture of compliance.
“CEVA has a robust digital infrastructure built not just to manage logistics, but to demonstrate that medicines have remained authentic, within the correct temperature
range, and fully compliant throughout their journey,” says Ten Kate.
CEVA’s global network of cold-chain facilities—strategically located and GDPcompliant—includes dedicated ambient and cold room storage linked to GDP multimodal transport across air, road, and ocean. Key sites in Asia Pacific include Singapore, Malaysia, China, and Australia. To reduce risk, CEVA offers tailored, end-toend solutions: “We offer tailored solutions for customers’ specific needs, including
development of the customer’s end-toend supply chain roadmap: evaluation, risk analysis, SOP design, and auditing of all involved stakeholders to develop a transportation plan that minimises critical cold chain breaks at control points.”
CEVA provides 24/7 real-time monitoring via multiple platforms and a dedicated control tower team supported by healthcare specialists and IT systems. “We provide customers with 24/7 visibility and realtime monitoring of shipments via multiple platforms and a control tower managed
ERIC TEN KATE
Global Sector Leader Healthcare, CEVA Logistics
by our team of healthcare experts and supported by a dedicated IT system and processes.”
When disruptions occur, CEVA is ready with contingency protocols. “Alert management is activated in case of temperature deviations, using sensors that monitor temperature and humidity. Deviation management includes compliant back-up procedures. We have temperature followup documentation.”
Additional services include innovative temperature-controlled packaging, on-site pharmacists and GDP-trained staff, customs brokerage with ISO-certified processes, and a strong compliance framework aligned with the World Health Organisation (WHO), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and national regulations.
“We ensure full compliance with regulations from the WHO, IATA and local regulatory bodies, and mitigate compliance risks,” Ten Kate adds.
Visibility, technology, and control
Visibility is foundational in healthcare logistics, and CEVA has built its digital ecosystem to deliver exactly that.
“Technology alone is never enough; it must be combined with industry expertise to unlock the potential value,” says Ten Kate.
CEVA’s myCEVA platform offers real-time freight management, enabling customers to track shipments, automate processes, and enhance transparency. The company’s control towers serve as data-driven coordination hubs that integrate inputs from road, air, sea, and rail, providing actionable insights.
“The control tower can be defined as a centre for disparate data, which is translated into information for decision-makers and professional operators. This overall vision means control tower operators can identify risks and opportunities far in advance.”
To maintain uninterrupted visibility, CEVA has implemented a follow-the-sun control tower model, where teams across time zones coordinate global oversight 24/7, allowing immediate response to delays, diversions, or emergencies.
CEVA is also investing in new tools to push visibility further. In France, the company has established a dedicated innovation hub focused on integrating meaningful technologies like artificial intelligence into supply chain operations.
“While the market has evolved beyond basic track-and-trace, healthcare clients demand
COVER STORY - CEVA LOGISTICS
far more validated, end-to-end transparency that enables not only monitoring but proactive intervention.”
Sustainability: A strategic imperative
In line with its parent company, the CMA CGM Group, CEVA is committed to protecting the environment and aims to become net zero by 2050.
“At CEVA, sustainability is embedded in both our internal roadmap and our client-facing operations, where we play an increasingly strategic role. While our influence on direct emissions is limited, we are deeply involved in Scope 3 emissions, where collaboration with customers is most impactful,” says Ten Kate.
The company continues to invest in LEED-certified warehouses and solar energy systems, while expanding its lowcarbon vehicle fleet, with 1,450 units expected globally by 2025. CEVA’s energy efficiency plan focuses on reducing energy
sources.
The company also supports circular economies, partnering with stakeholders to develop closed-loop supply chains. More sustainable packaging solutions are being implemented that meet sterilisation and safety standards without compromising environmental goals.
Where feasible, CEVA encourages a modal shift from air to ocean freight, helping customers cut emissions without sacrificing control. As part of the CMA CGM Group, CEVA has access to LNG-powered vessels and global decarbonisation infrastructure.
“Sustainable aviation fuel, while widely endorsed, remains economically prohibitive, raising unresolved questions about costsharing across manufacturers, logistics providers, and end users,” notes Ten Kate.
Even with systemic challenges, CEVA’s approach remains pragmatic and collaborative.
consumption and shifting to clean energy
COVER STORY - CEVA LOGISTICS
“Sustainability in healthcare logistics is no longer a value-add but a strategic imperative, and our role is not only to ensure compliance, but to help build resilient, future-ready supply chains capable of delivering on both commercial and environmental expectations.”
People, partnerships, and a patient-first culture
Much of CEVA’s strength lies in its culture, one shaped by long-term customer collaboration, continuous innovation, and clear leadership vision.
“At CEVA, our customers’ needs and strategic ambition are at the centre of all we do,” Ten Kate shares.
In Asia Pacific, CEVA operates a regional competence centre that supports customerspecific goals. Through co-innovation programs, the company collaborates with healthcare clients to streamline operations,
improve lead times, reduce carbon impact, and build scalable solutions.
“By analysing current customer processes and identifying potential mid-to-long-term improvements in productivity, cost savings with the given lead times, and CO2 reduction, proven solutions become established best practices within the partnership.”
Leadership also drives continuous learning and innovation throughout the organisation, ensuring that teams stay ahead of evolving needs.
One such example comes from Singapore, where CEVA supported a major global cruise line in distributing flu vaccines. The team managed the pick, pack, and preconditioning of passive shipper boxes, maintaining strict 2–8°C temperatures and achieving 100% on-time delivery to destinations across Europe, the United States, and Asia Pacific—all within 96 hours.
What’s next for healthcare cold chain
While Europe remains the largest contributor to CEVA’s healthcare revenue, the company is rapidly scaling in Asia Pacific—a region poised to become a biomanufacturing powerhouse.
“Asia Pacific is on its way to becoming a biomanufacturing powerhouse, building on its achievements and ambitions in clinical trials and biotechnology innovations in recent years,” says Ten Kate.
To meet rising demand, CEVA’s strategic focus will centre on high-impact markets, enhanced service integration, and an uncompromising commitment to operational excellence.
“Our scope extends beyond in-warehouse logistics, across the full supply chain, with a growing emphasis on outbound freight management, visibility solutions, and seamless customer integration,” he explains.
The company’s broader mission is rooted in long-term impact.
“As we move forward, CEVA’s ambition is to combine precision with purpose: to grow where we can lead, to partner where we can create value, and to ensure that logistics become not just an enabler of healthcare delivery, but a force for advancing systems that are more responsive, sustainable, and patient-focused.”
FEATURE - CAINIAO
The rise of smart warehouses: How automation and AI are transforming logistics
by Kim Yang
As the wave of automation and AI continues to reshape industries, warehouse management is undergoing a transformation like never before. There’s a common belief that we’re heading toward “lights-out factories.” But what exactly does this mean? A “lights-out factory” refers to an operation where the entire production process runs with minimal human intervention, to the point where it can continue operating with the lights off. The concept is powerful: 24/7 production, continuous output without breaks, extreme efficiency, lower costs, and heightened safety.
To achieve this, two critical pillars support the transformation: automation and digitisation. In practice, this translates to automated equipment clusters and digital twin-powered intelligent decision-making systems.
Automation: the heart of the revolution Logistics isn’t like finance or software— it’s physical, labour-heavy, and deeply operational. Warehouses still rely on workers picking and moving goods, truck drivers handle long hauls, and couriers
keep last-mile deliveries running. But here’s the problem: labour shortages, rising costs, and surging e-commerce demand mean this model just doesn’t scale anymore. We need to rethink productivity itself. The way forward is automation—real, large-scale automation that transforms productivity, not just tweaks it.
Take automated guided vehicles (AGVs). They’ve changed the game by bringing goods to workers instead of the other way around, speeding up fulfilment and reducing human strain. What used to take hours can now be done in minutes.
Then there are four-way pallet shuttles. Pallet storage is considered one of the most efficient ways to store goods. When it comes to automating pallet storage, there are several challenges to tackle: improving storage density, speeding up retrieval, reducing costs, and boosting system flexibility. Automated stackers have a clear advantage over traditional equipment like forklifts, especially in high-rise warehouses over 15 meters tall, where forklifts can no longer reach.
In recent years, the introduction of four-
way pallet shuttles has elevated automated pallet storage technology to new levels. Unlike traditional systems that move only forward and backwards, these shuttles can move laterally as well, navigating warehouse aisles with more flexibility. This added mobility allows warehouses to make the most of their storage space, repositioning pallets dynamically based on real-time demand.
Industries like e-commerce, retail, third-party logistics (3PL), cold chain, automotive, electronics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing are already putting these systems to work. With high storage density, scalability, energy efficiency, and faster deployment cycles, they are becoming a core component of modern smart warehouses.
At Cainiao, we’ve built our own four-way shuttle system, designed to handle 1,500kg loads while working in sync with other robots. In one partner factory, deploying these shuttles cut total warehouse management costs by 38% by eliminating inefficiencies that humans simply shouldn’t have to deal with.
FEATURE - CAINIAO
Intelligence: the brain behind Automation on its own isn’t enough. Smart logistics needs a brain—a system that makes real-time decisions to optimise everything from storage placement to delivery routes. That’s where digital twins and AI-powered control systems come in.
Warehouses don’t operate in isolation. They’re part of a much bigger ecosystem, connected both upstream (suppliers, manufacturers, inbound logistics) and downstream (distribution, last-mile delivery, customers). Within the warehouse itself, everything—storage, picking, packing, outbound processes, and delivery—must be visible and coordinated.
A well-designed logistics system doesn’t just automate tasks; it flows seamlessly, is logically structured, and keeps key performance indicators in sync. This puts new pressure on logistics system integrators, who must now master not only automation hardware but also software development, customised solutions, project execution, and ongoing operational support.
Companies leveraging AI-powered control systems are already seeing measurable improvements—higher inventory turnover, reduced disruptions, and faster fulfilment cycles. Take Cainiao’s case—our Supply Chain Control Tower is designed to provide panoramic visibility, real-time alerts, and
intelligent diagnostics across 15 core logistics scenarios, from procurement and production to warehousing. One company that integrated real-time monitoring and risk prediction through this system saw a 25% increase in inventory turnover.
Looking to the future, automation technologies such as automated 3D warehouses and flexible AGV systems will continue to develop rapidly. Their applications across storage, handling, and transportation will become more widespread. Robotic arms, including humanoid robots, will gain traction in tasks like sorting, automatic loading and unloading, and assembly line automation. Although the four-way shuttle system is still in its early stages, its potential for more intelligent, flexible applications is immense. For example, its use in cold storage facilities represents a huge untapped market. Even traditional stackers will become smarter, safer, and more efficient.
Meanwhile, AI-driven warehouse intelligence will continue to push the boundaries of predictive logistics. Autonomous control towers will oversee entire supply chain networks, ensuring that every facility operates at peak performance.
With over 20 years of experience in logistics planning and automation, Kim Yang leads Cainiao’s logistics technology automation initiatives. Having worked for Alibaba and Cainiao for a decade, Kim has played a key role in the design and implementation of numerous automation projects. He was instrumental in developing Asia’s largest automated warehouse utilising AGV technology.
SATS redefines temperature-controlled logistics with award-winning innovation
As the global cold chain logistics market is projected to grow from approximately USD 436 billion in 20251 to over USD 1.3 trillion by 2034—expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%2—logistics providers are under increasing pressure to deliver reliable, high-quality services for temperature-sensitive cargo in the pharmaceuticals, fresh produce, and healthcare sectors.
SATS, a leading player in air cargo and ground handling, is meeting this demand through an integrated cold chain strategy that combines global infrastructure, digital innovation, operational training, and strategic collaboration. With 42 dedicated cold chain facilities and multiple global certifications, SATS is laying the groundwork for a resilient, technology-enabled logistics future.
A global network built for resilience
The SATS Group has developed a robust global network of cold chain facilities spanning Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle
East, Africa, and the Americas. Out of 42 facilities, 32 are certified under CEIV Pharma, CEIV Fresh, or GDP standards, underscoring SATS’ commitment to regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
SATS states that their cold chain infrastructure supports critical industries including pharmaceuticals, fresh food, and healthcare, offering unmatched reliability and quality assurance.
Flagship facilities such as Coolport in Singapore and AAT COOLPORT in Hong Kong exemplify the group’s capabilities. Located within the Free Trade Zone at Changi Airport, Coolport offers 18 cold rooms across three temperature ranges (2–8°C, 15–25°C, and -18°C) and direct airside access. With a handling capacity of 250,000 tonnes annually, it features chilled workstations, temperature-controlled truck docks, and an airside Cool Dolly service. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Coolport served as a critical hub for vaccine storage, highlighting SATS’ readiness in managing time- and temperature-sensitive cargo.
Protecting integrity from end to end
Cold chain integrity hinges on both speed and precision. At Changi, SATS deploys a dedicated towing team to deliver temperature-sensitive cargo to Coolport within 60 minutes of arrival. The use of temperature-controlled docks and the Cool Dolly service ensures stable conditions during handovers.
In Hong Kong, AAT COOLPORT enhances cold chain performance by accepting cargo directly at air-conditioned truck docks, eliminating exposure to external temperatures. All subsequent cargo processing—including weighing, x-raying, palletising, and storage—takes place in temperature-controlled areas, supported by CEIV Pharma, CEIV Fresh GDP, ISO 22000:2018, and HACCP certifications. Fully automated systems for palletised cargo and direct airside access further optimise safety and speed.
1 Precedence Research. (2025, May). Cold chain logistics market size to surpass USD 1,359.78 billion by 2034. Retrieved June 17, 2025, from https://www.precedenceresearch.com/cold-chain-logistics-market
2 Verma, A. (2025, June 2). Cold chain logistics market size & share | Growth forecast 2037. Research Nester. Retrieved June 17, 2025, from https://www.researchnester.com/reports/cold-chain-logistics-market/4557
Digital infrastructure drives real-time visibility
SATS is transforming its cold chain operations through a layered digital strategy that combines automation, real-time tracking, and intelligent monitoring. This includes RFID-enabled tracking, AI-powered command centres, and on-ground tools that deliver end-to-end visibility, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical and perishable shipments.
In Singapore, the proprietary cargo management system COSYS+ integrates with COSYS+ Mobility, a mobile scanning solution that enables piece-level tracking. Customers gain real-time visibility over shipment status through the SATS Cargo website, improving transparency, traceability, and compliance with global standards. These tools also support quicker decision-making in a dynamic cargo environment.
Facility-level automation is enhanced through hardware such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and Building Management Systems (BMS), which allow SATS to respond swiftly to disruptions and maintain consistent temperature control.
In Europe and the US, SATS and its subsidiary Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) operate digitally enabled cold chain facilities. In Liège, Belgium, a dedicated e-commerce cold chain hub—developed with Saudia Cargo and Cainiao—is outfitted with IoT sensors, digital dashboards, and live tracking to ensure speed and compliance. Major European hubs, including Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), and Amsterdam (AMS), are CEIV or GDP-certified, while U.S. stations such as JFK, ORD, and IAD feature CDPcertified facilities equipped with automated temperature monitoring, validation, and calibration systems.
Operational readiness starts with people
With the highly sensitive nature of pharmaceutical and perishable cargo, SATS and WFS maintain a strong focus on workforce readiness. Staff undergo specialised training in temperaturecontrolled handling, regulatory compliance, and emergency response. Regular airline audits and safety simulation exercises help ensure high standards.
“Operational readiness is carried out through frequent airline and external audits and safety simulation exercises. Our commitment is to ensure that every
checkpoint is executed with precision and care, so as to uphold the highest standards of cold chain handling,” says SATS.
In Europe, WFS further strengthens cold chain logistics through its accredited WFS Academy, provides initial and ongoing training on CEIV Pharma, GDP standards, dangerous goods, and health and safety. Practical on-the-job coaching and refresher courses maintain compliance and skills, while specialized programs prepare staff to manage sensitive cargo with expertise and reliability according to global standards.
Consistency across borders
To maintain service quality across its global network, SATS applies a centralised framework of policies, SOPs, and KPIs aligned with GDP and IATA CEIV Pharma standards. These are rolled out across joint ventures and adapted to meet regional requirements, ensuring consistency without compromising flexibility.
Powering cold chain through partnerships
SATS collaborates closely with airlines, forwarders, and logistics giants to deliver customised cold chain solutions. Valueadded offerings include pre-conditioning of active containers and multimodal transfers. Collaborations with DHL, FedEx, Kuehne+Nagel, and DSV have enabled SATS to build integrated air-sea-road corridors, reducing temperature deviations and improving delivery speed.
“By combining SATS’ handling expertise with our partners’ global reach and logistics infrastructure, we are delivering more resilient and scalable cold chain solutions for customers across healthcare, food, and high-value perishable sectors,” the company notes.
A greener cold chain
SATS is also focused on decarbonising its cold chain operations. The group has
committed to reducing its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030. Over the past six years, SATS has halved its group carbon intensity from 111 tCO2 equivalent per SGD million of revenues in 2020 to 54 in 2025. This year, the carbon intensity of its Gateway services (cargo and ground activities) is 27 tCO2 equivalent per SGD million of revenues, representing an 11% improvement compared to the previous year.
This achievement reflects SATS’ transition to electric or lower-emission vehicles, the adoption of energy-efficient refrigeration systems, and increased use of renewable energy. Currently, 21% of its global fleet consists of low-emission vehicles (up from 11% last year), and 27% of its electricity consumption is sourced from renewable energy—either through rooftop solarisation or green energy procurement.
Looking ahead
Ongoing infrastructure upgrades—from new refrigerant systems to humidity control—are part of SATS’ strategy to enhance operational resilience and energy efficiency. The group is also investing in predictive maintenance and data-driven tools to support smarter logistics decisions. With rising demand from the health science sector, SATS is positioning itself as a trusted, globally connected cold chain partner.
Recognition and motivation
At the 11th Payload Asia Awards, SATS was recognised in two categories for ground handling excellence. According to SATS, “These awards reflect the collective effort across SATS teams to elevate standards in cold chain logistics—from deploying new technologies and facility upgrades to enhancing staff capabilities and developing tailored solutions for our customers.”
With its unmatched global reach, awardwinning service, and forward-looking strategy, SATS is shaping the future of cold chain logistics across continents.
Vienna Airport charts a course as pharma gateway for Europe–Asia flows
The global market for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical logistics surpassed US$42 billion in 2024, and if the numbers hold, annual growth is expected to continue at 7.6%1. Behind those figures, however, lies a more nuanced picture—one that demands tighter handling protocols, faster transits, and infrastructure purpose-built for precision. At Vienna Airport, that shift isn’t just on the radar—it’s already well underway.
In 2024, the Austrian hub handled 4,238 tonnes2 of pharmaceutical shipments, up 15 percent year-on-year and now accounting for over 15 percent of its total air cargo volume. The surge is no accident. Vienna Airport has been quietly but methodically positioning itself as a pharma logistics gateway connecting Europe with Asia, and the results are beginning to show.
Where precision meets proximity
At the centre of Vienna’s pharma ambitions is the Vienna Pharma Handling Centre (VPHC)—a 1,600-square-metre GDPcertified facility located directly adjacent to the apron.
“We operate two dedicated temperature zones—+2 to +8°C and +15 to +25°C,” says Michael Zach, Senior Vice President Ground Handling & Cargo Operations at Vienna Airport. “With its location, the VPHC ensures rapid cargo transfer and minimises the risk of temperature deviations.”
That time-saving setup matters. In the world of biologics, gene therapies, and other temperature-critical treatments, even brief exposure to the elements can compromise an entire shipment. Vienna’s landside-toairside integration helps eliminate those weak links.
The geographical advantage
Vienna has always marketed itself as a natural gateway into Central and Eastern Europe, but the airport’s pharma strategy extends much further. The airport sits on well-established air corridors that connect Western Europe with key Asian markets, where many active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) originate.
“The geographical location of Vienna Airport plays a central role in the pharma cargo flow between Europe and Asia,” Zach notes. “As a gateway between East and West, Vienna Airport is strategically located in the heart of Europe, offering shorter transit times to important markets in Central, Eastern and Southern Europe. At the same time, the airport is excellently connected to flight routes to Asia.”
1 Grand View Research, “Healthcare Cold Chain Third Party Logistics Market Report, 2030,”https://www.grandviewresearch.com/ industry-analysis/healthcare-cold-chain-third-party-logistics-market-report
2 “2024 Marks Record Air Cargo Year for Vienna Airport: 22% Cargo Growth with 15.3% Increase in Pharma Handling Compared to the Previous Year,” Payload Asia, May 16, 2025,” https://payloadasia.com/2025/05/2024-record-air-cargo-year-vienna-airport-cargo-growthincrease-pharma-handling/.
That dual alignment—east-west and intraEuropean—makes Vienna a convenient transhipment point for both raw materials coming in and finished goods heading out.
End-to-end cold chain continuity
To meet the expectations of pharma customers, Vienna Airport has doubled down on infrastructure. Sealed cool sluices, temperature-controlled truck docks, and refrigerated trailers for ramp transfers are all part of the VPHC’s standard operating procedure.
“Specially sealed cool sluices between truck and VPHC protect against outside temperatures during handling,” Zach explains. “The loading and unloading processes are carried out within a controlled room temperature area using special air truck docks. Dolly Docks connect the VPHC (landside) and apron (airside) directly via power-controlled roller-bed systems and high-speed doors. The use of cool trailers ensures temperature regulation during tarmac transportation.”
These measures enable seamless cargo transfers while preserving temperature integrity across every touchpoint. The entire operation is backed by real-time monitoring and centralised oversight from Vienna Airport’s control department.
A collaborative approach
Vienna’s cold chain strategy hinges not just on equipment but on partnerships. The dual-access facility allows airlines and freight forwarders to operate side by side, enabling a one-stop process for everything from thermofoil wrapping to documentation.
“For example, when individual shipments arrive at VPHC from pharmaceutical companies via refrigerated trucks, all necessary tasks are completed within VPHC in a one-stop process,” says Zach. “This includes thermofoil cover operations in collaboration with forwarders and ULD operations in collaboration with airlines.”
While the airport hasn’t disclosed specific partners, it’s clear that Vienna is working closely with global forwarders and specialised logistics providers to align standards and processes.
Greener, smarter logistics
Vienna Airport’s sustainability play isn’t window dressing. The site is powered in part by Austria’s largest solar installation, which
FEATURE - VIENNA AIRPORT
supplies roughly 50 percent of the airport’s total electricity needs, including energyintensive temperature control systems.
“Sustainability is a very important driving theme for Vienna Airport,” says Zach. “For example, the airport operates the largest solar power plant in Austria, covering 50% of its annual electricity consumption, which also applies to the VPHC.”
This investment in renewable energy is just one part of the airport’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency in cargo operations.
Evolving with the industry
With demand rising for personalised medicine, biologics, and complex treatment regimens, the VPHC is already adapting.
“VPHC offers business opportunities not only to airlines and freight forwarders but also to customers who require personalised pharmaceuticals,” Zach explains. “To meet the needs for customised handling, we occasionally conduct separate processes in consultation with the clients.”
Vienna Airport’s pharma strategy is futurefocused, with continued improvements on the horizon. “We will strive to obtain certifications or develop common improvement measures based on the airport community in collaboration with the cargo development and marketing departments,” says Zach.
In a space dominated by larger hubs like Frankfurt and Amsterdam, Vienna Airport
is playing a different game—competing not on scale, but on precision, proximity, and purpose-built infrastructure.
With a central location that links Europe and Asia, plus a clear eye on sustainability and logistics innovation, Vienna may just be carving out its niche as the preferred cold chain gateway for pharmaceutical cargo moving between continents.
MICHAEL ZACH
Senior Vice President
Ground Handling & Cargo Operations at Vienna Airport
