From automated workflows to optimizing global chip logistics, artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing efficiency and creating new business opportunities in the air freight sector.
During the panel discussion “Artificial Intelligence - What's in it for air cargo?” held on the second day of a trade fair, industry leaders highlighted the transformative impact of AI while addressing its associated challenges.
“In the past, analyzing market trends required input from multiple employees, but now AI delivers insights almost instantaneously,” noted Hashim Alsharif, Vice President of Strategy & Business Development at Saudia Cargo.
Global Implementation of AI in Air Cargo
AI-powered innovations are already delivering tangible benefits in the logistics sector. Dnata, a Dubai-based aviation services provider, has streamlined production planning in Singapore using AI. In Dubai, drones and AI are employed for warehouse inventory management, while in Amsterdam, algorithms optimize slot allocation for bookings, according to Guillaume Crozier, Chief Cargo Officer at Dnata.
“With AI, we can forecast peak delivery times, optimize scheduling, and enhance the efficiency of system planning for pickups and deliveries,” explained Denis de Farias Duarte, Vice President of Cargo Development at Fraport.
However, Duarte emphasized that building a “digital mindset” across the supply chain is crucial to fully realize AI’s potential. “The journey involves formulating a strategy based on this mindset and implementing it across all stakeholders,” Crozier added. Seamless connectivity and collaboration among players remain ongoing challenges.
A Focus on Problem-Solving and Agility
Oliver von Götz, Head of Global Fulfillment Management at Lufthansa Cargo, underscored the importance of defining clear problems for AI to address. “It’s critical to engage the team and present a long-term vision when adopting AI technologies,” he noted.
At Saudia Cargo, investments in data expertise and infrastructure have enabled round-the-clock operations across all time zones, according to Alsharif. Similarly, Moritz Claussen, Co-CEO of Cargo One, emphasized that AI empowers employees and improves overall efficiency without replacing human roles. “Managers must identify and implement specific use cases to achieve meaningful outcomes,” Claussen stated.
However, challenges persist. “Many current data structures date back to the 1970s and 1980s, making integration with legacy systems difficult,” observed von Götz. Duarte pointed out the lack of “quick wins” to showcase the immediate value of AI to customers.
Despite these hurdles, the pace of transformation is accelerating. “Strategic planning timelines have shortened from 10-15 years to just three,” remarked Alsharif, stressing that “agility is the key to success.”
Business Opportunities in Semiconductor Logistics
The second segment of the discussion explored the burgeoning opportunities AI presents in semiconductor logistics. As global digitalization and AI applications drive demand, air freight companies are adapting to meet the sector’s specialized requirements.
“The demand for semiconductor transport is extraordinarily high,” said von Götz. While Lufthansa Cargo has a long-standing focus on spare parts, managing microchips and chemicals demands meticulous attention to temperature control and shock absorption.
Saudia Cargo has similarly observed a significant increase in demand. Alsharif highlighted the critical importance of safety and protection measures throughout the supply chain, from handling and airport operations to warehouse management.
Duarte emphasized the importance of industry collaboration, citing roadshows in India and China that attracted over 200 participants. “Ongoing dialogue within the air freight sector is essential,” he concluded.
Source: https://www.dvz.de/sonderseiten/transport-logistic-2025/detail/news/air-freight-in-the-ai-turbo.html
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