Cargo handling is vital to prevent pilferage, illicit trade, and cybersecurity threats. Given that air cargo is expensive, any handling defects can render it costlier and non-viable. So, integrating technology with all supply chain is vital, says Rahim Bhimani, Senior VP, Air Cargo Excellence, Kale Logistics Solutions.
What is your vision for global air cargo sector? Discuss about the firm’s plans to develop CCS for global logistics transformation?
The industry has proven its resilience since the pandemic, providing crucial support to global supply chains amid challenges in ocean shipping. Its agility and adaptability have been pivotal during these turbulent times. Looking ahead, the air cargo sector shows great promise, especially with targeted investments in technology, sustainability, infrastructure, and policy-making. Kale Logistics Solutions’ UN recognised Cargo Community Systems (CCS) aligns with WTO Trade Facilitation norms, making them globally applicable. These systems are designed to connect all layers of the supply chain, addressing current and future industry challenges. The strategy involves creating CCS at airports and ports, linking them with partner facilities to form inter-modal corridors. These neutral networks will integrate data from all stakeholders, enabling data-driven operations.
How crucial is safety of air cargo during handling and ferrying? Comment how tech integration is ensuring seamless operations?
Efficient cargo handling is crucial to prevent pilferage, revenue leakage, illicit trade, high cargo dwell time, and cybersecurity threats—all compromise safety and security of cargo. Given that cargo is the expensive mode of transport, any handling flaws can render it even costly and non-viable. Therefore, integrating technology with all supply chain stakeholders is vital.
Seamless data flow enables advanced shipment notifications and Blockchain-based tracking for perishables and pharma, reducing counterfeits and damages through interventions. Technology helps pinpoint where pilferage occurs within the supply chain, allowing for proactive measures to prevent future incidents. This integration strengthens the air cargo business model by enhancing efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring the viability and competitiveness of air transport.
How was the Indian response on adopting tech solutions, considering high cost and lack of skilled manpower?
India is experiencing advancements in IT adoption, surpassing the global average, and leading in airport technology transformation. A decade ago, India had lagged, but today, the industry embraces technologies such as CCS—cloud-based SaaS platforms that can scale with demand. The Indian government, and associations such as FFFAI, ACAAI, BCBA, and FIEO, and entities such as Kale, are collaborating to reduce logistics costs.
India benefits from a skilled workforce. With widespread computer literacy among undergraduates, imparting technical training is straightforward. This synergy between government, associations, and firms is driving innovation and efficiency in India’s logistics sector, positioning the country as a leader in technology-driven airport transformations.
Share with us your ongoing projects and future expansion plans?
We are making inroads into the American and European markets, receiving support from the cargo sector. Soon, we will implement our Airport Cargo Community System in Istanbul and Budapest airports. This year, we set up offices in Canada, Colombia, the Republic of Congo, and Malaysia, expanding our presence to all major markets, including the UAE, the Netherlands, and Kenya. Exciting announcements are forthcoming for our projects in the Middle East and Latin America.
We have consolidated our offerings and are developing technology such as Blockchain, AI, and big data, for our solution products. We are pursuing global standardisation of our products to contribute to trade harmonisation through uniform data. This approach will enhance the efficiency of our services, solidifying our role in the global logistics.
