Innovative Siemens software for end-to-end digitalization of air cargo processes in Dubai

Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics (SPPAL) has received a major order to implement a cutting-edge cloud-based software platform for dnata’s cargo operations in Dubai. The appointment system will allow all land transport processes up to the hub’s dock side to be handled digitally. The benefits for dnata will include significantly increased transparency and the seamless, IT-based cooperation with freight forwarders, agents and airlines. The platform is based on the AX4 software of the SPPAL subsidiary AXIT. 

dnata is one of the world's leading air services providers, handling over 2.8 million metric tons of cargo per year at more than 40 airports worldwide. End of last year, dnata already contracted SPPAL to upgrade the automation inside the terminal with its highly sophisticated Cargo Compact software. Together, the two customer-oriented solutions allow for the establishment of further integrated processes both front at house and inside the airport terminal. 

"We bring the real world of logistics and the digital transformation together," said Michael Reichle, CEO of Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics. "In Dubai we have already successfully completed a large number of airport projects." For example, Siemens has built and expanded the baggage and air cargo systems at both Dubai International Airport and the new Al Maktoum International Airport. In addition, the company is a long-term partner for the related services and software applications. 

"With Siemens as innovation partner, we are setting new standards in the air cargo industry," added Bernd Struck, Senior Vice President UAE Cargo & DWC Airline Services for dnata. "With end-to-end digitalization of our processes we are able to tailor our services even more closely to our customer’s requirements and further increase our competitiveness."

dnata performs air cargo services for around 200 airlines around the world. In addition to cargo handling, the company offers ground handling, in-flight catering services and travel management. 

Apart from Dubai, Siemens customers include further four of the top ten cargo airports in the world, which transport approximately 14 million metric tons of goods each year. As for the software business, the company added further capabilities and strengthened the entire SPPAL portfolio by acquiring the firm AXIT in 2015. Working with this subsidiary, Siemens offers the AX4 cloud technology for the digitalization of processes along the entire supply chain – from production to transport by truck, ship or plane all the way up to the logistics center and final delivery.

Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics GmbH (SPPAL) headquartered in Constance, Germany, is a fully owned subsidiary of Siemens AG. SPPAL is a leading provider of innovative products and solutions in mail and parcel logistics and automation as well as in airport logistics with baggage and cargo handling. Software solutions and customer services along the whole product life cycle complete the portfolio. The company has an installed base in more than 60 countries worldwide. Major customers include renowned airports as well as postal and parcel service providers around the globe. Further information is available on the Internet at: www.siemens.com/logistics

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 165 years. The company is active in more than200 countries, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. One of the world’s largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies, Siemens is No. 1 in offshore wind turbine construction, a leading supplier of gas and steam turbines for power generation, a major provider of power transmission solutions and a pioneer in infrastructure solutions as well as automation, drive and software solutions for industry. The company is also a leading provider of medical imaging equipment – such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging systems – and a leader in laboratory diagnostics as well as clinical IT. In fiscal 2015, which ended on September 30, 2015, Siemens generated revenue of €75.6 billion and net income of €7.4 billion. At the end of September 2015, the company had around 348,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com.