Etihad to use AI to boost cargo capacity

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Etihad Cargo has entered into a proof-of-concept agreement to use Speedcargo’s artificial intelligence (AI) products to boost capacity on its flights.

Etihad will become the second aviation company it use its Cargo Eye dimensioning system, and among only a few global carriers to trial its Cargo Mind planning and utilisation software.

Cargo Eye, developed with Microsoft’s Time-of-Flight sensing technology, captures imagery of incoming cargo and calculates accurate dimensions based on its type, size and packaging while integrating the data into existing warehouse management systems. It also feeds data into Cargo Mind to accurately build load plans, monitor and promote data compliance and identify damaged cargo to reduce potential claims.

The software could allow the carrier to boost capacity by more than 3,000 tonnes a year while manpower savings could reach 3,720 hours a month while minimising leakage and optimising offload recovery by up to a third. Billing should also become more transparent and accountable and there will be faster response times for freighter charter quotations.”

Etihad Aviation Group senior vice president for sales and cargo, Martin Drew (pictured, left, with Speedcargo founder Dr Suraj Nair), said: “The Proof-of-Concept will confirm whether these advanced Speedcargo products can boost efficiency, productivity and revenue returns through digital technology solutions, with the plan to integrate them into our operations in 2022.”