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Shanghai Pudong International Airport has experienced a technological advancement in air freight logistics. China Eastern Air Logistics Co., Ltd. (CEAL) has launched a new generation of automated, high-capacity transport vehicles (AGVs) in collaboration with Lödige Industries. These AGVs are specifically designed for the flexible and fully automated transport of Unit Load Devices (ULDs) and are now in operation at the airport’s Cargo Terminal 4.
Efficiency Increase Through Automated Systems
A total of six AGVs, each capable of transporting up to 6.8 tons, have been successfully implemented. These vehicles are expected to significantly improve efficiency and automation in air freight handling. The AGVs are fully integrated into Lödige’s Cargo Management System (CMS), which enables optimized planning, control, and tracking of the freight flow. By utilizing real-time data analytics, the system provides visual insights on mobile devices, supporting precise and efficient freight management.
Weddy Pan, Senior Deputy Manager of the Operations Quality Management Division at CEAL, expressed positive feedback on the implementation: “Lödige’s system has far exceeded our expectations and completely transformed our operational model. It has made our logistics processes more efficient and adaptable, preparing us optimally for future growth.”
Nicholas Tripptree, Managing Director of Lödige Industries for the Asia-Pacific region, emphasized the significance of the AGV system: “Our AGV system is a powerful enabler for efficiency and automation in air freight terminals. We are proud to collaborate with CEAL to introduce this advanced technology and help them enhance efficiency and set new standards for freight operations.”
Benefits of AGVs for Freight Operations
The new AGVs offer increased operational flexibility by reducing reliance on manual transport methods and supporting route optimization. This decreases the need for fixed infrastructures and allows for dynamic freight flows. The data-driven intelligence of the AGVs ensures precise control, minimizes the risk of damage to ULDs, and supports round-the-clock operations. This enables employees to focus on value-added tasks.
All six AGVs were manufactured in Germany and underwent rigorous testing to ensure consistent quality and performance. The AGV fleet also harmonizes with China’s first Lift-and-Run system, which was also provided by Lödige Industries, thereby increasing throughput and operational intelligence at the terminal.
The partnership between CEAL and Lödige Industries continues to evolve, with previous collaborations including the renovation of an Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV) system and the provision of a Transfer Vehicle (TV) system. This underscores the shared commitment of both companies to innovations in air freight logistics.
