Unilode Aviation Solutions has won the IATA Air Cargo Innovation Award 2019 for its Bluetooth-based tracking system for unit load devices.
The concept allows customers to use the ULD as a proxy for air cargo located inside to track location and transmit status updates on the temperature, light and shock exposure and humidity.
Explaining that time and temperature sensitive products are the biggest areas of growth in air cargo, Glyn Hughes, global head of cargo at IATA says: “Customers for these products want to know where these items are, and their condition, at any time during their transport. Unilode’s tracking innovation will make this a reality. I congratulate the company on their achievement and use of data to drive improvements in operational quality.”
Benoît Dumont, CEO of Unilode says the company is very proud to have won the award, saying: “Unilode’s aim is to deliver enhanced value to various stakeholders including airlines, ground handlers, shippers and freight forwarders to solve common issues relating to ULDs and cargo, and is looking forward to continuing the development and roll-out of its award-winning digitalisation programme.”
The award was presented at the 13th World Cargo Symposium in Singapore, with an independent jury including experts, academics and CEOs evaluating 56 entries from across the industry.
Projects were evaluated based on the idea, its potential to create value and likelihood of achieving success.
Three companies were shortlisted to present their projects to over 500 audience members during the WCS closing plenary who cast their vote, with Unilode receiving $20,000 to develop the idea.
Hughes says: “To attract demand in new market segments, the air cargo industry must improve its value proposition. Innovation holds the key to industry development, sustainability and success and we are committed to help unlock its potential. It’s important to recognise the individuals and companies that are driving change.”
