Cathay cargo terminal has completed the first end-to-end trial of autonomous electric tractor (AET) operations for direct towing from the inside of the terminal to the west cargo apron (WCA) at Hong Kong International Airport.

The trial involved a fully autonomous electric tow-tractor pulling four cargo dollies into the Cathay cargo terminal and driving itself to the correct cargo transfer gate for loading. After loading, the AET drove itself out of the terminal and successfully completed its journey across the airport to the furthest cargo apron, the WCA, delivering the cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay cargo flight.

A unique feature of this initiative is the precise docking solution, enabling the AET’s towing dolly chains to automatically align with the transfer deck for seamless unit load device (ULD) loading. Enhanced security features also allow the AET to be digitally checked into and out of the terminal without compromising security.

IATA info portal for animal transport

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched LAR Verify, a digital portal to improve the welfare and safe air transport of animals.

Using LAR Verify, airlines, shippers and freight-forwarders can access accurate operator and destination-specific requirements as defined by the IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR). The regulations have formed the basis for the worldwide transport of animals by air for more than 50 years. The new portal offers an automated compliance solution for animal shipments, streamlining planning, booking, acceptance and handling.

IATA data shows there were close to 200,000 animal shipments globally in 2024 — up 11 per cent since 2019.

“The volume of specialised cargo — live animals in particular — continues to grow. To manage this opportunity safely and efficiently, a single digital portal that provides access to relevant LAR regulations and facilitates data sharing is mission critical,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.

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Published on April 20, 2025