Air, Freight News, IT


Lödige takes intelligent approach to terminal automation

[ March 11, 2026   //   ]

Air cargo technology firm Lödige Industries has introduced a software module that intelligently links air waybill (AWB) data with terminal resources in real time.

It says that Cargo Direct reduces unnecessary movements and synchronizes handling resources with shipment priorities, helping terminals increase throughput and stabilizing operations during peak periods.

The system consolidates shipment data, special handling codes, terminal layout, equipment availability and personnel resources into a single, continuously updated activity plan. Instead of merely recording user actions, the system actively determines and instructs the next optimal process step for each cargo unit.

Lödige says that historically, large-scale automated terminals often struggled to match the operational transparency and responsiveness of smaller facilities.

Despite widespread equipment automation across the industry, many terminals still rely heavily on manual decision-making and individual experience. Cargo Direct closes the gap between mechanical automation and true process automation, says the company.

By introducing structured, system-guided process automation, Cargo Direct enables large hubs to deliver visibility and control at significantly higher scale.

Each cargo unit is identified by hand-held scanners connected via WLAN or 5G. Based on scanned data, Cargo Direct automatically directs cargo to its next optimal destination, such as storage location, inspection station, X-ray screening or build-up workstation. Exceptions such as damaged cargo or partial shipments are managed within the system logic.

Put-away and retrieval strategies are dynamically optimized to minimize travel distances and reduce waiting times at workstations. Landside processes benefit from early door and gate assignment based on shipment content, layout constraints and operational priorities. Additional data sources, such as volume and weight information captured via smart gates with 3D scanning, can be integrated to improve ULD build-up density and increase overall terminal capacity.

Cargo Direct is fully compatible with existing Cargo Management Systems and integrates via standard interfaces using industry-standard IATA messages. Operational status and location data are fed back to the CMS in real time, creating a unified audit trail across the terminal. Offered as a subscription-based model per AWB, the solution is continuously enhanced through regular updates and provides a robust data foundation for future AI-assisted optimization.

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