Swiss firm SkyCell has been selected as the preferred unit load device (ULD) tracking partner for Air France KLM Martinair Cargo.

This collaboration involves the deployment of IoT technology across the entire ULD fleet of Air France KLM Martinair Cargo.

The SkyMind platform (www.skymind.com), purpose-built for this transformation, will provide the airline group with real-time visibility into ULD operations, driving operational and cost efficiencies.

In a world where the demand for cost-effective ULD tracking is escalating, with estimated annual expenses related to ULD loss and repair reaching $330m worldwide, SkyCell says its approach is game-changing.

With SkyMind, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (www.afklcargo.com) gains complete control over ULD operations, mitigating manual efforts historically associated with tracing and tracking, resulting in time and cost savings.

“We’re excited about our partnership with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo as we establish a new standard in technology for air cargo’s ULD management,” said Nico Ros, SkyCell (www.skycell.ch) CTO. “This achievement is made possible through our close cooperation with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo and the integration of SkyMind, our IoT-driven visibility platform with specialised ULD management. The partnership marks a major transformation in the airline industry towards automation, with a strong focus on efficient ULD management, streamlined dispositioning and improved asset utilisation.”

Adriaan den Heijer, EVP at Air France-KLM Cargo, added: “We’ve decided to invest in the latest asset tracking technology with SkyCell. A new technology, called SkyMind, has been developed. Implementing state-of-the-art tracking devices to locate our ULDs will not only enable us to track our assets but will also significantly enhance our operational quality. Real-time ULD tracking will enable us to address the issue of ULD losses, whether by ground handling partners or our valued customers, and will ensure seamless movement of cargo. With improved ULD management, we can optimise our operations and deliver exceptional service to our air cargo industry partners.”