Digital Testbed Air Cargo
The Digital Testbed Air Cargo is a research project funded by the BMDV that develops digital applications for air cargo. The aim is to make the transport chain more efficient through better networking and digital process optimization. After the first project phase (09.2021-09.2024), the second phase is now starting until August 2026. The focus is on the further development and implementation of new technologies such as ONE Record, AI, automation and eCommerce integration. In addition, predictive analytics and digital avatars are being researched to create innovative solutions for air freight logistics.
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Project progress 2024-2026
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Project progress 2021-2024
Digital Solutions for Air freight
A neutral, cross-location development and testing of digital solutions/standards in air cargo is planned, together with various project partners from industry and academia.
For this purpose, solutions will be implemented, further developed and demonstrated within the framework of the Digital Testbed at various German airport locations. The results of the Digital Testbed will be processed transparently and made available to the entire industry as open-source solutions as far as possible.
Project goals
- Establishing and developing a more effective networked transport infrastructure that also contributes to reducing emissions in the air freight transport chain
- Strengthening German air cargo locations in the international competitive environment through a pioneering role in the development of digital air cargo standards
- More efficient use of resources such as means of transport, space and equipment
- Early detection of problems and bottlenecks through improved data availability
- Saving fossil fuels through more efficient transports and shorter waiting times
Topics
Standardized Data exchange
between all players in the air freight transport chain and implementation of industry standards (ONE Record, eFTI).
Demonstration of Automation and Autonomation
in dispositive handling and transport processes of air cargo.
AI-supported Optimization and Forecasting applications
are being developed and tested to increase the efficiency of processes.
Locations
The development and demonstration of the overall project takes place at different locations / airports:
- Cologne-Bonn
- Leibzig-Halle
- Frankfurt am Main
- Munich
- Hamburg
- Düsseldorf
- Stuttgart
Therefore, different requirements and aspects of use are considered, and a broad usability is ensured. In addition, further project locations will be integrated via a call for tenders.
The consortium partners cover all relevant participants in the air cargo process chain.