CargoForwarder Global’s ‘Spotlight On…’ series illustrates the great variety of careers on offer within the air cargo industry. When talking about air cargo, the focus is often on exporting freight: making bookings, searching for routes, airline capacities to certain destinations, cargo sales, etc. Yet, there are always at least two locations involved in a shipment’s journey, and what happens at ‘the other end’ is just as important as what happens at the start. This week’s focus, therefore, is on Import Coordination. Swissport’s Abdallah Makanya (AM) takes us through his responsibilities as Cargo Import Coordinator and shares his views on the air cargo industry.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
AM: I am the Cargo Import Coordinator, responsible for overseeing all aspects of cargo import operations. This includes managing the handling of consignments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, coordinating warehouse logistics, and addressing any discrepancies or issues that arise during the import process. Additionally, I monitor performance metrics to maintain efficiency and ensure timely deliveries.
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
AM: In this industry, no two days are exactly alike, but generally, my day involves overseeing consignment handling, ensuring smooth warehouse operations, coordinating with customs and freight agents, and resolving any operational issues that may arise. I also monitor performance metrics such as on-time delivery of consignments and cargo handling accuracy.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
AM: I have been in the air cargo industry for over 10 years, driven by a passion for aviation that began in my early years. The dynamic nature of the logistics world and the critical role that air cargo plays in connecting global supply chains fascinated me. I started my career as a Statistic and Quality Assurance staff member, where I gained valuable insights into operational performance and process optimization. However, my growing interest in the management of warehouse operations and the hands-on aspect of cargo handling led me to specialize in import operations.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
AM: I enjoy the fast-paced nature of the logistics and aviation industry. Every day presents new challenges, and solving them keeps me engaged and motivated. For example, there was a case where a missing consignment piece caused significant concern for a customer. After a detailed investigation and collaboration with my team, we located the missing item within one of the verified boxes, ensuring a smooth delivery and restoring the client’s trust. Moments like these highlight the importance of attention to detail and teamwork.
CFG: What do you see as the greatest challenges in our industry?
AM: The industry is evolving rapidly with new technologies, but implementing and integrating these solutions effectively remains a challenge. Barriers include budget constraints, staff training, and resistance to change within traditional operational structures. To tackle these challenges, I believe in investing in automation, advanced tracking systems, and digital tools while ensuring proper training and change management strategies. Investing in automation, tracking systems, and digital tools is crucial, but adoption takes time and resources.
CFG: What advice would you give to people looking to get into the air cargo industry? Any particular training they should aim for?
AM: The air cargo industry is fast-paced and requires attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Gaining hands-on experience in warehouse operations or cargo handling can be valuable. Understanding industry regulations and safety procedures is also crucial.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
AM: Beyond the Runway: The Unsung Heroes of Air Cargo.Thank you, Makanya, for sharing your insights.
Thank you, Makanya, for sharing your insights.
If you would like to share your personal air cargo story with our CargoForwarder Global readers, feel free to send your answers to the above questions to cargoforwarderglobal@kopfpilot.at We look forward to shining a spotlight on your job area, views, and experiences.
