Sterling and SATS partner on time-critical AOG shipments

Aviation logistics firm Sterling is partnering with ground handler SATS to speed up first- and last-mile delivery of urgent Aircraft-on-Ground (AOG) shipments.

The collaboration between Kuehne+Nagel-owned Sterling and SATS will focus on optimising handling processes with new services.

The services provided include specialised handling at the point of origin and destination to manage AOG shipments and the use of time stamps for updates on the shipment’s status on the ground.

Singapore and London Heathrow airports have been identified for a trial phase, but the companies plan to implement the services at other airports within Sterling’s network in the coming months.

Rob Broderick, executive vice president for Sterling, said: “This joint service with SATS will expedite first- and last-mile support to shorten delivery windows and get aircraft back in service faster.”

The new project stems from a memorandum of understanding signed by SATS and Kuehne+Nagel last October to create efficiencies in transport operations.

The two companies said that they have successfully conducted several other Proofs of Concept to optimise ground handling for e-commerce shipments and air charter hub and spoke operations, as well as this airside service to improve shipment visibility and cargo processing speeds for time-critical shipments.

K+N and SATS collaborate on efficiency and sustainability initiatives