AVIATION-

#1- Qatar Airways Cargo + Unilode form digitalization partnership: Qatar Airways Cargo is partnering with Switzerland-based unit load devices (ULD) management company Unilode Aviation Solutions for the digitalization of over 42k ULDs in its fleet, the airline said in a press release. Qatar Airways Cargo will leverage Unilode’s E-ULD mobile app, web portal, and Enterprise Data Warehouse, enabling real-time ULD tracking, enhanced data analytics, and cost reduction.

What are ULDs, exactly? ULDs are removable containers or aircraft pallets that restrain loads and protect aircraft systems and structures during flight, according to the International Air Transport Association. The devices are key for cargo flight safety but are difficult to regulate because they regularly pass through outsourced ground operators.

#2- Ajex Logistics + Chapman Freeborn to collaborate on cargo management: Saudi-based Ajex Logistics and UK-based aircraft charter and aviation support firm Chapman Freeborn have inked a strategic collaboration agreement to bolster aviation and cargo services across Saudi Arabia, according to a press release. The collaboration aims to commercialize aircraft charter services, provide airport ground and cargo handling, and manage special cargo projects.

#3- Emirates SkyCargo increases its main deck cargo capacity by 15% to meet surging global demand in 2025, according to a statement. To achieve this, the company said it wet-leased two more Boeing 747 freighters and received its first of 14 Boeing 777Fs. The company currently operates 16 aircraft and expects to reach 29 vessels by the end of 2026.

TRADE-

Jordan buys 60k tons of wheat, traders say: Jordan has reportedly purchased nearly 60k tons of wheat to be sourced from optional origins in an international tender on Tuesday, Reuters reports, citing traders familiar with the matter. The country bought the grain from trading house CHS at an estimated price of USD 267 a ton — including cost and freight — and is slated for shipment during the second half of March. Jordan will also reportedly issue a new tender soon to acquire 120k tons of wheat, with offers expected to be submitted on 21 January and shipments scheduled for April and May, traders added.

LOGISTICS HANDLING-

Ford lands PDC in Dubai South: Ford Motor Company, in partnership with DB Schenker, has inaugurated a parts distribution center (PDC) at Dubai South, which the company says should boost operational efficiency and foster tech innovation, Trade Arabia reported earlier this week. The 42k sqm facility will integrate material handling equipment (MHE) and a racking system designed to maximize storage capacity, including very narrow aisle (VNA) systems, multi-tier mezzanines (MTM), deep selective racking (DSR), and cantilever Racking (CR). The hub will also have 20 container docks — 10 for inbound and 10 for outbound — to enable simultaneous activities and accelerate delivery times.

SHIPPING + MARITIME-

Egypt’s SCA + Oman’s ILS partner up on maritime operations: Egypt’s Suez Canal Authority (SCA) has inked an MoU with Oman Integrated Logistics Services Company (ILS) to collaborate in maritime operations and logistics services, according to a statement. The agreement involves exploring cooperation in areas including training, ship repair, and maintenance.

ICYMI: Egypt’s cabinet approved a draft agreement last week to expand cooperation with Oman in maritime transportation and ports. The pair have also expressed interest in exploring potential cooperation between Oman’s Duqm and Salalah ports and Egypt’s Alexandria and Ain Sokhna ports.

OTHER STORIES WORTH KNOWING THIS MORNING-

  • Piracy down 3.3% in 2024: The incidents of maritime piracy fell 3.3% y-o-y to 116 last year, down from 120 the year prior and 115 in 2022. Some 94 ships were boarded, six vessels were hijacked, three were fired upon, and 13 attacks were attempted last year. (Statement)
  • Oman + Bahrain expand economic zones’ ties: Oman’s Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and the Bahraini Industry and Commerce Ministry have signed an agreement to increase cooperation in developing and managing economic and industrial zones in the two countries. The agreement was one of 25 spanning various sectors that both countries signed to enhance cooperation. (ONA)
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