AAs GSAs embrace new technology

TWO American Airlines Cargo GSAs are now able to send FFR (space reservation request) messages to the airline direct from their computer systems and receive automated FSU (freight status update) messages, whenever the shipments status changes.

The GSAs – IAM in Ireland and Fly Us BV in the Netherlands – both use the Aircountability for Cargo system developed by DABS. The new FFR facility represents an upgrade to the system’s existing ability to send manual FSR (freight status request) messages to AA, which trigger FSA (freight status answer) to provide post-flight information.

IAM’s managing director, Ian McCool, said: “Making a booking with AA using an FFR means they will now automatically send us an FSU message whenever the status of the shipment changes. So we will get regular post-flight information without asking for it with an FSR.

“This will reduce administrative workload for both AA and us as their GSAs. Because of our own system’s ability to automatically on-forward the information in the FSU, the agent will have timely status information at his fingertips 24/7. This is a significant milestone in improving the quality and speed of information for AA customers and we are grateful to the airline for its cooperation on this project.”

In addition to handling the FFR, FSU and FSA messages, Aircountability accommodates three other commonly-used standard CargoIMP messages, the FBL (freight booked list), FFM (airline manifest) and FFA (response to the FFR, confirming if the space request is accepted or not). Aircountability is also able to interface with airline systems using Sita’s SuperCargo system.