Dnata launches digital airfreight handling platform in Dubai

Air services provider dnata has launched a cloud-based airfreight handling platform for its operations in Dubai, which enables freight forwarders to book appointments with the cargo terminal to deliver and pick up consignments.

Dnata said that Appointment and Dock Management (ADM), which is powered by Siemens Logistics and its subsidiary Siemens Digital Logistics, is helping it to impove the planning, efficiency and transparency of its cargo processes.

The platform considers multiple factors — such as shipment characteristics, flight details and vehicle type — to determine the best-timed slots for the delivery or acceptance of goods. It also coordinates with Dubai’s customs team to schedule inspections.

A unique feature of ADM is its abilty to suggest an appropriate slot time based on the historical behaviour of forwarders and flight schedules.

Dnata said that so far, ADM has reduced average freight handling times at dnata’s cargo terminals by more than 60% to an average of 30 minutes.

“Furthermore, the platform allows terminal operators to see demand in real-time, enabling them to plan the required resources and serve customers just in time,” dnata said.

Bernd Struck, senior vice president of UAE cargo and DWC Airline Services at dnata, said: “We are delighted to offer our partners more value by implementing another innovative solution across our Dubai operations.

“ADM is a crucial element in our digital transformation programme. It seamlessly integrates into Calogi, our existing trading platform for the air cargo community, which connects over 800 supply chain partners with 2000 users. We continue to invest in leading technologies to provide best-in-class services to our customers.”

Michael Reichle, chief executive of Siemens Logistics, added: “We offer powerful applications for increasing efficiency in freight and cargo process management. We are proud of how the platform in Dubai has improved our customer’s business processes.”

Dnata handles 700,000 tonnes of cargo per year at Dubai International and Dubai World Central airports.

Currently, ADM integrates around 800 freight handling agents and manages more than 600 appointments per day.

In addition to ADM, dnata has also launched One Cargo, a cargo management system that streamlines and manages its airfreight operations on a single platform.

“One Cargo has eliminated all redundancies and manual check sheets, and has also simplified our operations, significantly improving operational efficiency at both Dubai airports,” dnata said.