29 Dec Air Cargo’s Ascendance: A vital force in global supply chain dynamics
Imagine a world without air cargo – characterized by slower, less efficient, and more vulnerable global trade and logistics systems. The interconnectedness that defines the modern global economy would be severely compromised, necessitating a re-evaluation of business strategies and supply chain dynamics.
In today’s interconnected and fast-paced world, the air cargo industry has emerged as a vital component of the global supply chain. The demand for faster, reliable, and efficient transportation of cargo has accelerated the significance of air cargo. As on date, 36 per cent of the world cargo are transported through air cargo industry.
In North America alone, the industry is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.2 per cent every year with a market revenue of US$43.20 billion by 2028.
With this, the industry is continuing to be in the spotlight for a longer timeline. Yet, the industry is under scrutiny for various factors such as increased carbon emissions, followed by other aspects. Again, the industry stakeholders are responding with a slew of initiatives to overcome these challenges and these initiatives are redefining the increasing importance of the air cargo industry in a much demanding global supply chain.
Sustainability initiatives and green aviation
In response to growing environmental concerns, the air cargo industry has been actively pursuing sustainable initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. Airlines and cargo carriers are adopting more fuel-efficient aircraft, investing in renewable energy sources, and exploring alternative propulsion technologies.
Moreover, digitization has enabled better route optimization, leading to reduced fuel consumption and emissions. These efforts align with the global push for greener aviation practices and create a more sustainable supply chain ecosystem.
Most notably, nearly 75 per cent of organizations in the industry have a strategy to address challenges in meeting sustainability goals.
Data analytics and predictive maintenance
Digitization has revolutionized the way data is collected, analyzed, and utilized in the air cargo industry. Airlines and cargo carriers now use advanced data analytics to optimize their operations and make informed decisions. Predictive maintenance is a prime example of this trend, where sensors and machine learning algorithms are used to monitor the health of aircraft and cargo handling equipment. This proactive approach helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensures the seamless flow of goods throughout the supply chain.
Internet of Things (IoT) for cargo tracking and monitoring
The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed cargo tracking and monitoring processes. IoT devices embedded in cargo shipments allow real-time tracking of goods, providing stakeholders with accurate information about the location, temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors. This enhanced visibility not only improves the security and safety of valuable cargo but also facilitates better inventory management and minimizes losses due to theft or damage.
Blockchain for enhanced security and transparency
Blockchain technology has gained traction in the air cargo industry due to its ability to provide enhanced security and transparency in supply chain operations. Blockchain-based systems offer an immutable and decentralized ledger of transactions, making it difficult for any single entity to manipulate or tamper with data. This feature ensures that cargo information remains secure and accessible to authorized stakeholders throughout the shipment’s journey.
e-Commerce boom and last-mile delivery
The rise of e-commerce has been a game-changer for the air cargo sector. Consumers now expect quick delivery of their online orders, and air cargo provides a swift and reliable solution. The industry has witnessed a surge in demand for last-mile delivery services, where goods are transported from distribution centers to the customers’ doorsteps in the shortest possible time. Air cargo plays a crucial role in meeting these expectations, allowing e-commerce companies to thrive in a competitive market.
Emergence of community platforms and digital corridors
With a lot to focus on carbon emissions and sustainability initiatives, technology adoption is seen as the go-to solution for all these stakeholders. While enterprise solutions powered by IoT and Blockchain as well as Artificial Intelligence are already in use, cargo community systems and digital freight corridors too are increasingly being adopted in several airports. According to industry reports, nearly ten important airports in North America has deployed a cargo community system to digitally streamline their operations. Also, to make cross-border even more seamless, airports in Europe and Asia are consistently deploying digital freight corridors. With all this, the future looks digital and automated.
Air Cargo at the forefront of innovation
E-commerce’s rapid growth, the integration of UAVs, data analytics, IoT, blockchain technology, and sustainable initiatives have collectively transformed the air cargo landscape. Embracing these advancements enables the industry to provide faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation solutions, driving global trade and economic growth forward. As technology continues to evolve, the air cargo industry will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of innovation, meeting the demands of an ever-changing global supply chain.