Airbus has launched the OpenCargoLab consortium with airlines and cargo carriers to digitalize and improve airfreight processes.
The collaboration aims to improve efficiencies across the whole airfreight ecosystem and involves CHAMP Cargosystems, Fraport, KLM Cargo, Kuehne+Nagel and Swissport.
OpenCargoLab will evaluate technology such as augmented reality and robotics to optimize data connectivity in general and, for example, the transport of dangerous goods in particular.
It will also contribute to the A350F’s further design and application development.
The findings developed at the OpenCargoLab, will be tested at Airbus’ Cargo competence site in Bremen, Germany. Among others, a replica of the A350F fuselage with the large cargo door included will be installed at the sites’ new Cargo Test Center by the end of this year.
Marvin Ehrmann, Head of Airbus’ OpenCargoLab said, “With OpenCargoLab we benefit from a holistic think tank for the dynamically growing cargo market and thus an agile environment for developing innovations connecting the airfreight market of today and tomorrow.
“We are very excited to have established a thought leadership platform where experienced partners can drive the airfreight sector to become even more efficient, sustainable and connected.”
According to Airbus the global freight market is expected to grow 50% by 2042. In Asia-Pacific, the region’s continued rapid economic growth means this market remains highly promising for modern airfreight business with digital hubs. Airbus anticipates demand for around 400 widebody freighters, including new builds and conversions, in Asia-Pacific over the next 20 years. This represents more than 25% of global demand for 1,490 cargo aircraft in the above 40 tonne segment.
Airbus has 50 orders from nine customers for the A350F.
