Lödige Industries has unveiled Cargo Direct, an innovative software module designed to optimize air cargo terminal operations by linking Air Waybill (AWB) data with terminal resources in real time. The platform enables terminals to improve capacity utilization, operational throughput, and resource allocation through intelligent workflow orchestration.
Modern air cargo terminals face mounting pressure from rising volumes, labor constraints, and increasing process complexity, as airlines consolidate traffic through fewer, high-intensity hubs. Terminals are evolving from simple handling points into digitally connected performance nodes within airline and forwarder networks. Cargo Direct addresses this shift by providing real-time, data-driven orchestration, transforming static automation into a fully synchronized operational system.
Intelligent Orchestration Improves Terminal Performance
Cargo Direct consolidates shipment data, terminal layouts, equipment availability, and personnel resources into a continuously updated activity plan. Each cargo unit—whether a ULD, pallet, or individual package—is tracked via hand-held scanners connected through WLAN or 5G. The system actively directs cargo to its next optimal step, such as storage, inspection, X-ray screening, or build-up workstations, reducing human intervention to a structured scan-and-confirm workflow.
By minimizing unnecessary movements, synchronizing resources with shipment priorities, and dynamically optimizing put-away and retrieval strategies, Cargo Direct helps terminals increase throughput per square metre and per man-day, while stabilizing operations during peak periods. Integration with smart gates, 3D volume and weight scanners, and other data sources further enhances ULD build-up density and terminal efficiency.
Bridging the Gap Between Automation and Process Control
While mechanical automation boosts individual equipment performance, Cargo Direct provides true process automation, enabling large-scale hubs to match the transparency and responsiveness traditionally seen in smaller facilities. The system manages exceptions—such as damaged cargo or partial shipments—within its logic, ensuring operational consistency and predictable hub-level performance.
“Digitalization in air cargo must go beyond data visibility,” says Philippe De Backer, CEO of Lödige Industries. “The real opportunity lies in intelligent, real-time operational orchestration—where shipment data, equipment, and resources are managed as one coordinated system. Cargo Direct closes the gap between equipment automation and true process automation, delivering consistent, repeatable throughput while supporting hub connectivity and schedule resilience.”
Seamless Integration and Future-Ready Design
Cargo Direct is compatible with existing Cargo Management Systems (CMS) and communicates using standard IATA messaging, feeding operational status and cargo location data back to the CMS in real time. Offered as a subscription-based solution per AWB, the platform is continuously updated, providing a robust data foundation for AI-assisted optimization and predictive logistics.
By combining real-time orchestration with intelligent automation, Cargo Direct positions terminals to maximize throughput, reduce operational variability, and transform complexity into a competitive advantage in an increasingly digitalized air cargo landscape.
