China Eastern Air Logistics (CEAL) has partnered with Lödige Industries to deploy high-capacity automated guided vehicles (AGVs) at its cargo terminal 4 at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, marking a significant step in the terminal’s evolution towards fully automated, next-generation cargo handling.
Six 10ft AGVs have now been fully implemented at the facility, following the successful completion of testing and commissioning. With the system formally handed over, terminal 4 is set to operate as a smart cargo hub, designed to support flexible, data-driven and scalable operations.
Each AGV is capable of transporting loads of up to 6.8 tonnes, setting new benchmarks for automation, safety, stability and reliability in air cargo handling.
The vehicles are fully integrated with Lödige’s proprietary Cargo Management System (CMS), Cargo Professional Suite, which manages cargo flow planning, guidance and tracking across the terminal.
The CMS leverages real-time data analytics and provides visualised operational insights via mobile devices, enabling more precise and efficient cargo management while supporting continuous, 24/7 operations.
“Lödige’s system far exceeded our expectations, completely transforming our operational model. It has made our logistics processes more efficient and adaptable, while fully preparing us for sustained future growth. What impressed us most is how the system seamlessly integrates with existing workflows, delivering a quantum leap in operational capabilities,” said Weddy Pan, senior deputy manager, operations quality management division, cargo terminal business development, at CEAL.
Nicholas Tripptree, managing director of Asia-Pacific at Lödige Industries, said: “Our AGV system is a powerful enabler of efficiency and automation in air cargo terminals. We’re proud to partner with CEAL to deploy this cutting-edge technology, helping them enhance efficiency, increase flexibility, and set new standards for cargo operations and overall terminal performance.”
According to the companies, the AGV fleet reduces reliance on manual transport and fixed infrastructure, optimises routing, and enables dynamic cargo flows that can scale with future demand.
Data-driven control helps minimise the risk of ULD damage while allowing staff to focus on higher-value operational tasks.
All six AGVs were manufactured in Germany and underwent rigorous testing to ensure consistent quality and performance.
The fleet also integrates with China’s first lift-and-run system, previously supplied by Lödige Industries, further enhancing throughput and operational intelligence at CEAL’s Shanghai cargo terminal.
READ MORE NEWS: Lödige Industries secures Changi Airport cargo maintenance extension with dnata
The post CEAL advances smart cargo strategy with AGV rollout in Shanghai appeared first on Aviation Business News.
Leave a Reply