Etihad Cargo, part of UAE flag carrier Etihad Airways, has become the first cargo airline in the Gulf region to implement Cargo-XML, the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) new technology standard for air cargo communications.

Developed collaboratively with industry stakeholders, Cargo-XML removes the requirement for cargo paper documentation, otherwise known as an Air Waybill.

The technology is now used by a growing number of airlines and other air cargo supply chain stakeholders, including shippers, freight forwarders, ground-handling agents, regulators as well as customs and security agencies.

Kevin Knight, Etihad Airways Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: “The implementation of Cargo-XML follows close collaboration with Abu Dhabi Customs and other stakeholders, and marks a major step in establishing Abu Dhabi as an e-Freight airport.

“By implementing Cargo-XML, a technology that is more flexible and robust than previous standards, Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi are now positioned as e-Freight leaders across the Gulf region.

“A unique feature of the system allows Abu Dhabi Customs to receive advance notification of all Abu Dhabi-bound cargo on Etihad Airways’ flights. This will enhance processing time through our hub.”

Etihad Cargo is also one of the early signatories of a new IATA multilateral agreement on electronic communication technology standards, known as Resolution 672. Stakeholder support for the new systems is on the rise, and IATA’s vision is to achieve 100 per cent electronic cargo communications by the end of 2015.
 

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