Swissport tests unmanned AGV at Frankfurt cargo facility

Source: Swissport

Cargo handler Swissport is testing an unmanned, automated guided vehicle (AGV) at its new cargo centre at Frankfurt Airport to reduce manual handling.

The Loedige industries’ AGV measures 10 ft and has a load capacity of 6,800 kg. 

It can transport a variety of ULDs, including 15 ft containers.

Swissport said the AGV reduces the need for manual handling and frees up staff for more complex and value-creating tasks.

“The AGV is highly mobile thanks to an omni-directional drive system with secure laser scanning to avoid any collision,” the handler said.

“It has the potential to connect all areas of the cargo facility, such as the Pharma Centre, truck docks, castor decks and the ULD storage area.

“The AGV communicates with gates and other automated equipment, can cover large distances and is fully compatible with Swissport’s state-of-the-art material handling system.”

Dirk Goovaerts, global cargo chair at Swissport, said: “The AGV has the potential to increase the efficiency, flexibility, and safety of Swissport’s air cargo handling services and to take our service delivery to the next level.”

Swissport seeks to improve procurement procedures

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Damian Brett

Damian Brett
I have been writing about the freight and logistics industry since 2007 when I joined International Freighting Weekly to cover the shipping sector. After a stint in PR, I have gone on to work for Containerisation International and Lloyds List - where I was editor of container shipping - before joining Air Cargo News in 2015. Contact me on [email protected]