dnata Singapore has been harnessing innovative technologies and sustainable practices to redefine the landscape of global air cargo operations, reflecting the company’s commitment to efficiency, environmental responsibility, and cutting-edge solutions.
“In recent years, we’ve significantly invested in infrastructure, equipment, and technologies to provide best-in-class cargo services to our customers in Singapore,” stated Sam Gould, emphasising the company’s dedication to advancement.
dnata Singapore’s advanced cargo terminal at Changi Airport stands as a testament to this commitment, designed to handle a massive annual turnover of 550,000 tonnes of cargo. This sophisticated terminal seamlessly facilitates the movement of an extensive array of cargo, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, live animals, aircraft engines, and vehicles.
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Integral to dnata Singapore’s cargo operations is the state-of-the-art 1,400m² pharma and perishable handling centre. This facility is capable of processing an impressive 75,000 tonnes of goods annually, ensuring impeccable temperature-controlled handling and storage solutions for airline customers.
The cool chain facility was meticulously designed to accommodate unique product handling requirements, leveraging the latest advancements in cold storage technologies and designs.
The temperature-controlled areas within the facility are modular, providing flexibility to manage shifting handling demands with dedicated climate control capabilities. This modular system also contributes to energy conservation during periods of reduced capacity. A web-based monitoring system enhances real-time management, allowing for precise control of cargo conditions.
dnata Singapore’s commitment to sustainability is further exemplified by its operation of multiple cool dollies. These dollies are not only equipped with solar panels on the roof but also conditioned to optimal temperatures using electric power. This approach ensures the secure and seamless delivery of temperature-sensitive goods between aircraft and facilities, while also minimising environmental impact.
Customers benefit from dnata Singapore’s customer track & trace portal, a versatile platform offering a multitude of online services. This portal empowers customers with online flight and shipment enquiries, access to import and export lists, printing of consignment lists, and generating reports on monthly cargo tonnage statistics. Each forwarder enjoys a personalised portal for reviewing shipment updates, payment information, and customs details—a significant step towards streamlining operations and enhancing customer satisfaction.
“One of the latest additions to dnata Singapore’s array of technological innovations is the Cargo Eye dimensioning machine, located at the acceptance dock,” Sam Gould explained.
“The Cargo Eye dimensioning machine has streamlined this process considerably as well as providing a more transparent and accurate service.”
This innovative machine not only captures the volume of every shipment but also captures precise timestamps, takes images from multiple angles, and is set to incorporate temperature reading technology.
Addressing the critical issue of emissions, dnata Singapore’s dedication to sustainability shines through. In 2022, the company pledged an impressive US$100 million investment to implement green technology and initiatives across its global businesses, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.
The company’s fleet planning is driven by green considerations, with investments an electric and hybrid ramp, ground support equipment, and forklifts. An upcoming transition to an all-electric fleet of forklifts in the Changi cargo terminal exemplifies dnata’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
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Notably, dnata Singapore’s approach extends beyond technology, with efforts to upcycle discarded materials like cargo netting, wooden spreaders, and transfer belts within its processes. The sourcing of locally recycled plastic for wrapping Unit Load Devices (ULDs) underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability even in challenging material sourcing scenarios.
Sam Gould’s optimism for the industry’s future was palpable: “I am genuinely excited to observe the significant progress our industry is experiencing in terms of digitalisation and sustainability,” he said.
“We will continue to invest in our operations to consistently provide the highest quality services while enhancing environmental efficiency across our operations.”
With a robust foundation built on cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking practices, dnata Singapore is keen to shape a greener and more efficient future for air cargo operations.
