With semiconductor transport being one of the world’s growing specialized industries, and one that requires expertise and care to avoid costly errors, it makes sense to create a fully tailored service. Qatar Airways Cargo has now done this and launched its TechLift product. It promises “the highest standards in semiconductor transport” and caters for the consumer electronics, high tech, AI, communications, satellites and automotive industries. TechLift conforms to the semiconductor industry’s handling and logistics requirements, and offers unique shock protection and absorption during ground and air transport, throughout the chain from acceptance to delivery. All kinds of semiconductor products such as integrated circuits, chipsets, microchips, urgent semiconductor manufacturing machinery and pieces such as capital and testing equipment, doped chemicals, cutting, stripping and etching wafers, are accorded higher loading priority and handled as per commodity requirements. Their transport is recorded using approved data loggers, and all shipments are protected from adverse weather conditions. Customers booking TechLift, can opt for additional AirPlus Solutions:

Q-Climate – Temperatures are kept at an optimum level, including using refrigerated trucks with extra shock absorption to mitigate movement during ground transfers in Doha

Q-Plus – For even higher loading priority

Q-Prime – Highest priority on capacity constrained flights with the added benefit of continuous monitoring by Qatar Airways Cargo’s Control Tower

Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, explained: “Nearly every aspect of modern-day life relies on semiconductors – from smartphones to data centers and cloud computing, to automotive, electric vehicles and industrial applications, and now, to an ever-increasing extent, AI and the Internet of Things. For all these applications to function correctly, semiconductors must be delivered in pristine condition. Their transport is best carried out by established cargo professionals, as it demands absolute precision, expertise, and highly trained staff. [We] have perfected every aspect of the transportation for semiconductor products to leave absolutely nothing to chance and have developed a world-leading dedicated service to cater for this. Qatar Airways Cargo has invested heavily in the latest high-tech equipment to create the best conditions for semiconductor transportation. We operate shock-absorbing 20-ft and 40-ft transport dollies in Doha, allowing us to offer a 90-minute minimum connection time and quick ramp transfer. And our extensive network enables full global reach.”

DP World has launched a comprehensive end-to-end logistics service for Europe, integrating road, maritime, air, rail, and multimodal transport into a single solution. The company opened its European Control Tower in Bucharest on 20MAR25, fully making use of Romania’s strategic location and DP World’s strong presence in the country. “The company already operates the Port of Constanța, which serves as a gateway for shipments coming from Asia and provides access to the Danube, and the multi-modal terminal in Aiud, through which goods continue on to the rest of Europe by road and rail,” the release explains. The Bucharest-based Control Tower coordinates all aspects of the service, including groupage, first/last mile delivery, warehousing, customs brokerage, and multimodal transport. It will develop advanced digital platforms for real-time management/communication and predictive analytics.

The new service aims to streamline supply chain management, reduce costs, accelerate delivery times, and provide transparency at every point of the transport journey. It also focuses on sustainability through a ‘groupage’ offer, consolidating goods from different companies to minimize empty space in the various modes of transport, and thus lowering the environmental impact of each shipment. Initially, the service will focus on Romania, Moldova, Serbia, Türkiye, and Bulgaria, with plans to expand across Central and Western Europe. This initiative reinforces Romania’s position as a leading European logistics hub and supports economic growth by providing easier access to international markets for Romanian businesses.

Kris Adams, Executive Vice President for Eastern Europe at DP World, stated: “This end-to-end service will be transformative both for DP World and our customers in this region. By leveraging our extensive capabilities in road, maritime, air, rail and multimodal transport, we can now take goods all the way from factory floor to customer door – and do it faster, cheaper and more sustainably. It turns DP World into a genuine force in European integrated logistics.”

One major feature with this version, is its mobile web application, JettApp. JettApp can be accessed via any browser, which not only eliminates the need for installation on the user’s mobile device but also reduces IT administration for both customers and Jettainer. The company is also working on future updates to optimize processes further, enhance tracking capabilities, and introduce faster reporting features. To align development with customer needs, Jettainer plans to establish a user forum for feedback and discussions on service improvements.

Jettainer’s CEO, Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, enthused: “This upgrade represents the next milestone in Jettainer’s digital journey! Driving digitalization is crucial for us to further improve the efficiency of our services and add value for our customers. Therefore, our goal is to become the digital market leader in ULD management. To underline this ambition, we are implementing IATA’s ONE Record target for ULD management.”

Andreas Baumann, Head of Innovation and IT Product Development & Project lead for JettwareNG, added: “JettwareNG is Jettainer’s next-generation IT platform, designed with the latest technology to ensure seamless, efficient, and future-ready ULD management. With faster updates, enhanced functionality, and an intuitive user experience, our customers can streamline operations, reduce complexity, and stay ahead in a digitalized air cargo world.”

DB Schenker has successfully demonstrated the reliability of its electric trucks in Finland, even under extreme winter conditions. Over the past year, two FUSO eCanter trucks were deployed in customer operations, proving their capability to operate efficiently in temperatures as low as -30°C, typical of Lapland near the Arctic Circle. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of alternative drive systems in freezing climates. Primarily used for regional and local transport, the trucks proved to be versatile and durable in a number of different logistics situations. Their advanced design ensures reliable operations, allowing DB Schenker to fulfil customer requirements across the country. The trucks are recharged overnight, ensuring readiness for daily operations without interruptions.

DB Schenker has been integrating FUSO eCanter trucks into its fleet since 2018, primarily for last-mile delivery. Its fleet currently numbers around 50 units across Europe, as it focuses on developing more sustainable and innovative logistics solutions in line with its broader strategy of reducing CO2 emissions through modern, eco-friendly technologies.

Tristan Keusgen, Head of European Fleet Management at DB Schenker, commented: “At DB Schenker, we are committed to pioneering solutions that meet the demands of modern logistics. We have been successfully operating two electric trucks in Finland for a year now. With this successful deployment of electric trucks in a region like Lapland, which has difficult weather conditions, we are proving once again that DB Schenker is leading the way to a sustainable future of logistics.”

Unilode Aviation Solutions and American Airlines have announced a strategic partnership for ULD management and digitalization, set to commence on 01OCT25. This long-term collaboration will see Unilode providing comprehensive ULD management services to American Airlines, including ULD repair, availability, and advanced digital technology. A key aspect of this partnership is the implementation of Unilode’s Bluetooth® and Lora-enabled tracking technology on American Airlines’ ULD fleet. This technology will offer real-time asset visibility, location tracking, and condition monitoring of ULDs, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

Unilode will also introduce its digital solutions, such as its eULD app and customer portal, to complement its ULD tag and reader network. These tools will enable American Airlines to monitor ULD status, track assets, maximize utilization, and optimize decision-making with real-time data insights. Furthermore, Unilode will provide ULD maintenance, repair, and overhaul services across its broad repair network. The company plans to expand its Americas Customer Success team to support American Airlines’ operations, with ULD asset planning and positioning managed from Unilode’s Operations Control Center (OCC) in Bangkok.

Greg Schwendinger, President of American Airlines Cargo, stated: “American Airlines is committed to investing in innovative solutions that improve operational performance and deliver a seamless experience for our customers. Unilode’s expertise in ULD management and digital tracking technology will play a crucial role in modernizing our operations and ensuring the highest level of reliability and service.”

Ross Marino, CEO of Unilode Aviation Solutions, said: “We are thrilled to partner with American Airlines to support their ULD operations with our innovative solutions. Our digital tracking capabilities and expertise in ULD management will bring significant benefits to American Airlines’ cargo and passenger operations, and we look forward to a successful collaboration for many years to come. We sincerely thank American Airlines for placing their trust in Unilode.”

Mohammed Akhlaq, Chief Commercial Officer, Unilode Aviation Solutions, added: “This partnership underscores the strength of our ULD management solutions and the dedication of our team to providing a world-class service. We look forward to working closely with American Airlines and contributing to their continued success.”

a Block Space Agreement (BSA), aimed at increasing cargo capacities between the East Coast of Canada and London, and potential onforwarding to Virgin Atlantic destinations such as Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bengaluru (BLR), Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), Dubai (DXB), Riyadh (RUH), or Lagos (LOS). The year-round commercial partnership will strengthen trade links between Canada and key destinations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. For Virgin Atlantic, the partnership is a milestone, connecting with the Canadian cargo market again after an absence of over 20 years. Some 20 tons of cargo uplift will be bookable every day on Virgin Atlantic’s London flights, and all shipments from Toronto will be moved under a WestJet Cargo Air Waybill (AWB) starting 838. Virgin Atlantic chose WestJet Cargo as its partner because it is a strong, reliable and professional cargo player in the Canadian market. “This partnership represents a renewed commitment by Virgin Atlantic to the Canadian cargo market, connecting inbound cargo via its state-of-the-art cargo facility at London Heathrow, and signals a new era of strategic growth and innovation for WestJet Cargo,” the press release states.

Kirsten de Bruijn, Executive Vice President of WestJet Cargo, explained: “Virgin Atlantic’s decision to entrust WestJet Cargo with managing this crucial route is a testament to our deep understanding of the Canadian market and our operational excellence. It’s a natural synergy with the same ground handling in both Toronto Pearson International and London Heathrow. We have a super team based in Toronto who are eager to make this commercial partnership a success for both carriers. Our specialized expertise in handling high-value commodities such as pharmaceuticals and valuables, ensures that customers receive reliable, top-tier service, all while providing seamless access to Virgin Atlantic’s London service, and beyond.”

Nick Diesel, Managing Director of Virgin Atlantic Cargo, said: “We’re thrilled to further enhance our commercial partnership with WestJet, leveraging their longstanding cargo expertise in the Canadian marketplace. This collaboration will ensure our customers across the region will have seamless access and added capacity throughout Virgin Atlantic’s global network. Canada is an important market for us, and this partnership enables us to provide cargo solutions that support trade and business growth between Toronto, London and beyond.”

Greek airline, AEGEAN, has partnered with Mondial Airline Services GmbH, a subsidiary of Global GSA Group, to enhance its cargo operations in Germany. The agreement, effective since 19FEB25, appoints Mondial as the airline’s General Sales Agent (GSA) for cargo services throughout Germany. The collaboration covers 80 weekly flights from Germany to Greece, including daily connections to Athens and Thessaloniki from multiple German cities. It also provides access from Greece to over 80 international destinations such as Yerevan (EVN), Larnaca (LCA), Tbilisi (TBS), Tel Aviv (TLV), Malta (MLA), and Tirana (TIA). AEGEAN’s cargo operations will be enhanced through the Global GSA Group’s extensive network and digital tools offering better capacity utilization, streamlined booking processes, and real-time data analytics. The partnership is expected to strengthen AEGEAN’s position in the German market while offering businesses more reliable and flexible cargo solutions. AEGEAN will utilize its modern fleet to ensure efficient service, accommodating general cargo, spare parts, and machinery components.

Zafer Aggunduz, Chief Commercial Officer of Global GSA Group, commented: “AEGEAN is a highly valued partner, and we are thrilled to represent them in the German market. With their extensive network and reputation as Greece’s leading airline, we believe this partnership will yield strong results and look forward to developing it further.”

Ismail Durmaz, Chairman of Global GSA Group, added: “We are delighted that AEGEAN has chosen Mondial Airline Services GmbH for this important role. With daily flights from key German cities and over 3,500 flights expected during the summer season, this partnership offers great potential. Our team is committed to delivering outstanding results and expanding our cooperation with AEGEAN in the future.”

It was all smiles over at Globe Air Cargo Dominican Republic recently. The ECS Group subsidiary celebrated its 20th anniversary and the key role it has played in the country’s cargo industry since the start in 2005. Over the past two decades, Globe Air Cargo has continuously adapted to meet market demands, strengthening its position as a strategic logistics hub. The company’s success is attributed to its deep understanding of the local market, regulations, and key players, allowing it to navigate challenges and provide tailored solutions. Globe Air Cargo has fostered strong relationships with exporters, freight forwarders, and airlines, securing long-term partnerships with major players like TUI, Condor Airlines, and Corsair. As a key logistics hub, it facilitates shipments between Europe, Asia, and the Americas, with Punta Cana and Santo Domingo serving as strategic transit points.

Under the leadership of Managing Director, Ivan Mejia, who has been with the company since its establishment, Globe Air Cargo Dominican Republic remains committed to expansion, digital innovation, and strengthening partnerships. It also continues to focus on operational excellence and customer service.

Ivan Mejia, Managing Director of Globe Air Cargo Dominican Republic, commented: “Reaching 20 years is a testament to the trust and support of our clients, partners, and employees. This incredible journey of growth and learning inspires us to continue innovating and providing value to the air cargo community for years to come.”

Jean Ceccaldi, CEO of ECS Group, concurred: “At ECS Group, we firmly believe that the strength of our subsidiaries lies in the dedication and vision of their managing directors. Ivan’s leadership and commitment have been key to the sustained development of Globe Air Cargo Dominican Republic. We celebrate his remarkable achievements and the contributions of his entire team over the past 20 years.”