Hong Kong’s Flagship Airline Cathay Pacific Uses Blockchain in ULDs

Hong Kong’s flagship airline Cathay Pacific has introduced the first blockchain project to manage unit load devices (ULDs).

Cathay plans to roll out the tech across the entire network

The new project intends to eliminate paper-based processes by implementing a blockchain application that allows to instantly manage ULDs through a smartphone, according to a report by air cargo publication Air Cargo News on Aug. 1.

Cathay, a founding member of major global aviation alliance Oneworld, reportedly launched its blockchain ULD project in July, targeting first transactions in Hong Kong and selected locations in the United States on the initial stage. The company expects to roll out the technology across the entire Cathay Pacific network in the near future, the report notes.

Cathay to improve the quality of services for clients with blockchain

According the official website, the Cathay offers scheduled cargo and passenger services to more than 200 destinations around the world. As noted in the report, the new blockchain system intends to provide standardized data and a higher level of transparency for all the parties involved. 

Cathay Pacific e-cargo and digital systems manager Calvin Hui, who initiated the project, claims that the new blockchain application will not only contribute to the internal management of ULDs, but will also improve the quality of services for Cathay customers. 

Specifically, the technology will allow Cathay to provide sufficient ULD stocks during peak cargo periods as the firm will have more precise location data of ULDs needed, Hui explained.

Recently, Cointelegraph reported on another Oneworld member, S7 Airlines, having processed over $1 million through its blockchain payment system for the month of July.