Delta Cargo is set to become the first US belly cargo provider to offer real-time tracking for unit load devices with the introduction of Bluetooth tracking technology.
The technology will replace manual tracking for all shipping containers, and will allow Delta’s cargo control centre to accurately monitor and reroute shipments that are delayed due to irregular operations such as weather issues.
When implemented, the tracking system will allow Delta to produce electronic unit control receipts, which is required by the International Air Transport Association when ULDs are transferred between parties, making Delta the first airline to offer a fully automated solution for customer transactions.
Delta Cargo vice president, Shawn Cole says: “Our customers have told us they want improved tracking and immediate transparency for ULD shipments, and this best-in-class product will deliver exactly that. Our innovative tracking technology, in conjunction with our 24/7 cargo control center, gives us the competitive edge when it comes to serving our customers.”
Delta was the first major airline to test Bluetooth tracking technology, and the tracking system will be available on all of Delta’s ULDs, with more than 1,400 readers tracking customer shipments at more than 200 airports across six continents by the end of 2018.
The airline’s GPS-enabled cargo tracking products including the recently-announced Equation Critical service for time-sensitive shipments will continue to be available for both narrow body and wide body aircraft shipments travelling internationally and within the US.
