Blockchain Revolutionizes Cargo Handling: Airlines See Significant Savings and Efficiency Gains

Airlines are discovering substantial benefits from blockchain-based supply chain management solutions, with potential savings of up to 7% in cargo handling operations. A recent study at Heathrow Airport, conducted by Aventus — a firm specializing in enterprise-grade blockchain-as-a-service solutions — highlights these impressive results.

Alan Vey, the founder of Aventus, emphasized that the cost reductions are not merely financial. The study also demonstrated enhanced operational efficiency, noting improvements such as faster turnaround times, quicker container location, and more streamlined communication between airlines and ground handlers.

Vey explained:

“Faster turnaround times, faster container location, and more streamlined communications between airlines and ground handlers… Airlines and cargo handlers can redeploy the time saved on more productive operations, which is where this cost saving comes from.”

Reducing Errors and Improving Operations

The benefits extend beyond cost savings. Aventus achieved a remarkable 90% reduction in communication and error incidents. This improvement is particularly significant given that outdated Unit Load Devices (ULDs), still in use at many airports, were contributing to inefficiencies and errors.

By digitizing these processes and leveraging blockchain for secure documentation and compliance, Aventus addressed the limitations of old ULD models. Vey noted:

“We enable airlines and ground handlers to digitize these processes, saving time and streamlining operations. Blockchain is a crucial part of this process, used to securely store important documentation for compliance purposes.”

The inefficiencies of the outdated ULD management systems were costing airlines over $1.6 billion annually, highlighting the need for modernization.

The impact of blockchain is further demonstrated by a 28% reduction in loading times achieved by optimizing outdated ULD workloads. Additionally, manual documentation time was cut by 83%, freeing up capacity for airline workers.

Michelle Roosevelt, Director at Aviation Perishables Handling, praised Aventus’ Web3 stack for its efficiency. In a report shared with Cointelegraph, Roosevelt described the app as:

“We’ve seen huge improvements in productivity. The app is more than a tool – it’s reshaped how we manage and track our aircraft containers…”

Aviation Industry Poised for Innovation

Blockchain technology is proving to be a game-changer for the aviation industry, which is ripe for innovation. Vey from Aventus underscores the technology’s transformative potential:

“Blockchain can’t be ignored by the aviation industry, which is ‘ripe for innovation in general.’”

As more global airlines across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East partner with Aventus to digitize their tracking solutions, the adoption of blockchain in aviation is set to grow, driving further efficiency and cost savings.