Swissport to Launch Blockchain Cargo Handling Pilot Project
On the 29th may, Air Cargo News reported that Swiss airport ground handling cargo company Swissport will be launching a blockchain pilot program for its cargo handling business. The company is launching a pilot program in collaboration with Olam, a non-profit association planning to build up an open platform for supply chain clients.
Hendrik Leyssens, head of global cargo operations at Swissport, said that blockchain could accelerate exchanges, enhance security, and help reduce operational expenses. Leyssens also said, “Thinking beyond traditional messaging, blockchain could eventually become the new standard allowing us to overcome the chronic lack of transparency, which is typical for fragmented supply chains.”
Swissport will also apply its blockchain pilot program to its passenger services business in collaboration with Winding Tree, a blockchain-based travel distributed platform. The firm will initially concentrate on applying blockchain innovation to the distribution of classic travel services to independent travelers, for example, airport lounge access.
Florian Eggenschwiler, who administers Swissport’s advancement unit, said, “We expect to see lasting benefits from this technology for fragmented global industries like aviation services and supply chain. It will likely change how service providers, clients and partners transact with each other. We want to get familiar with such technologies early in the innovation cycle and partner with technology leaders to explore its potential in our business for a variety of use cases.”
Blockchain has been getting traction in the production chain and logistics industry in the past months. Recently, US transport giant Norfolk Southern Corp reported that it is joining the Blockchain in Transport Alliance (BiTA), which intends to advance and create blockchain applications in the transport and logistics businesses.
Wal-Mart reported in April that it is prepared to utilize blockchain innovation in its live food business, which will assist the company to reduce waste, and also enhance contamination managements and straightforwardness.
