Collaboration combines global fleet management expertise, advanced digital technologies and regional manufacturing capabilities to deliver integrated Unit Load Device solutions for airlines
Shanghai, China: Jettainer, a global specialist in Unit Load Device (ULD) management, and Chinese ULD manufacturer Hangyi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at delivering integrated ULD management solutions, with a primary focus on the rapidly expanding aviation market in Mainland China. The agreement was formalised during Air Cargo China 2026 in Shanghai and has been confirmed through official announcements by the two companies.
The collaboration brings together Jettainer’s internationally recognised expertise in ULD fleet management and digital asset control with Hangyi’s manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) capabilities and strong regional presence. Together, the companies aim to provide airlines with a comprehensive suite of services that enhance operational efficiency, improve asset visibility and optimise ULD lifecycle management across domestic and international cargo networks.
Addressing growing demand for smarter ULD management
As global air cargo volumes continue to rise and airlines seek greater efficiency in fleet utilisation, ULD management has become an increasingly critical element of modern cargo operations. Airlines are under pressure to maximise equipment availability, reduce losses, improve turnaround times and comply with increasingly stringent operational standards. Recognising these challenges, Jettainer and Hangyi have developed a partnership that combines physical infrastructure with advanced digital technologies to provide airlines with end-to-end ULD management solutions. The partnership is expected to strengthen support for carriers operating within Mainland China while creating a platform capable of serving international markets as Hangyi continues to expand its global footprint.
Combining complementary strengths
Under the terms of the agreement, Hangyi will be responsible for manufacturing and supplying Unit Load Devices in accordance with jointly agreed technical specifications. Meanwhile, Jettainer will oversee global fleet management, operational planning and digital control of ULD assets through its proprietary JettWareNG platform, enabling airlines to optimise fleet utilisation while improving operational transparency. The integrated approach is designed to provide customers with a single, coordinated solution covering manufacturing, asset management, maintenance, logistics and digital monitoring throughout the ULD lifecycle.
IoT-enabled visibility and digital fleet control
A central element of the partnership is the integration of advanced Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into ULD operations. Jettainer will manage the technical onboarding of ULD fleets, including the deployment of IoT-enabled tracking and monitoring solutions that provide real-time visibility into equipment location, utilisation and operational status. The company’s dedicated ULD Control Desk (UCD) team will coordinate daily operational activities, helping airlines improve fleet planning, reduce equipment shortages and minimise unnecessary repositioning costs. By leveraging digital monitoring and predictive asset management, the partnership aims to enhance operational reliability while delivering greater efficiency across airline cargo operations.
Expanded maintenance and repair network
The collaboration also strengthens maintenance and repair capabilities through the integration of both companies’ MRO networks. Hangyi currently operates ULD maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities in China and Kuala Lumpur, with further expansion planned in Saudi Arabia, Europe and Canada. Outside these locations, Jettainer will utilise its extensive global network of certified MRO partners to ensure airlines receive consistent maintenance support regardless of operating location. The expanded repair infrastructure is expected to reduce equipment downtime, improve turnaround efficiency and extend ULD service life through coordinated maintenance programmes.
Integrated logistics and storage solutions
Beyond fleet management and maintenance, the partnership also encompasses ULD transportation and storage services.
Hangyi will provide domestic trucking services and warehouse capacity throughout China, supporting efficient equipment movement between airports, cargo terminals and maintenance facilities.
Jettainer will complement these capabilities by managing logistics support across Europe through its established transport network, creating seamless international connectivity for airline customers.
The integrated logistics offering is expected to simplify ULD repositioning while improving asset availability across multiple regions.
Executives highlight strategic significance
Commenting on the agreement, Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, Chief Executive Officer of Jettainer, said the partnership combines regional expertise with global operational capabilities to deliver an industry-leading service portfolio.
“With Hangyi, we have a strong partner by our side. Together, we can offer airlines in Mainland China the most comprehensive ULD service portfolio, including the latest IoT tracking technology for maximum efficiency.”
He added that the collaboration would strengthen the integration of Chinese expertise with Jettainer’s international capabilities.
“This partnership brings together Chinese expertise and global capabilities even more closely.”
Supporting Hangyi’s global ambitions
Fei Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of Hangyi, described the agreement as an important milestone in the company’s international growth strategy.
“The collaboration with Jettainer marks an important milestone in our growth strategy toward becoming a global high-quality aviation service provider.”
He said Hangyi continues to invest in expanding both its product portfolio and technical capabilities.
“We continuously enhance our innovative ULD product portfolio as well as our MRO services to deliver first-class, efficient and cost-effective solutions.”
Looking ahead, Qiang expressed confidence that the combined offering would deliver significant value to airline customers.
“Together with Jettainer, we are delighted to offer an integrated solution for the Chinese market.”
Supporting the future of global air cargo operations
The partnership reflects broader trends across the air cargo industry, where digitalisation, predictive maintenance and asset visibility are becoming increasingly important as airlines seek greater operational resilience and cost efficiency.
Unit Load Devices remain fundamental to efficient cargo handling, enabling faster aircraft loading, improved cargo protection and streamlined warehouse operations. However, effective ULD management has become increasingly complex as airlines expand global networks and operate across multiple service providers and jurisdictions.
By combining manufacturing, digital fleet management, IoT-enabled tracking, coordinated maintenance and integrated logistics within a single strategic partnership, Jettainer and Hangyi are positioning themselves to support airlines with smarter, data-driven ULD management solutions that improve asset utilisation, reduce operational costs and enhance supply chain performance.
With Mainland China continuing to strengthen its role as one of the world’s largest air cargo markets, the partnership is expected to contribute significantly to the modernisation of ULD management while supporting the industry’s transition towards increasingly connected and digitally enabled cargo operations.
