With the introduction of new Bluetooth tracking technology, Delta will soon become the first passenger airline in the United States to provide real-time tracking of unit load devices (ULDs).

This breakthrough marks a new era for Delta Cargo and the more than 500 million pounds of cargo the company transports each year. The technology will replace the manual tracking of all cargo containers, called ULDs, which carry cargo, baggage and postal service deliveries worldwide.

“Our customers have told us they want to improve ULD’s immediate tracking and transparency, and this first-class product will deliver just that,” said Shawn Cole, vice president, Delta Cargo. “Our innovative tracking technology and our cargo control center that operates 24 hours a day, every day, gives us a competitive edge in serving our customers.”

Real-time ULD tracking information will also enable Delta’s cargo control center to more accurately monitor and redirect late shipments due to irregular operations such as extreme weather conditions.

When implemented, the new tracking system will also allow Delta to issue electronic unit control receipts required by the International Air Transport Association when ULDs are transferred between companies; in this way, Delta will be the first airline to offer a fully automated solution for customer transactions.

Delta was the first major airline to test Bluetooth tracking technology from 2016, and has since deployed readers in 23 locations. By the end of 2018, the tracking system will be available in all Delta ULDs, with more than 1,400 readers tracking customer loads at more than 200 airports on six continents.

Delta’s current GPS-enabled cargo tracking products, including a recently announced service for urgent shipments called Equation Critical, will continue to be available for cargo on both narrow-body and wide-body aircraft traveling internationally and within the United States.

Delta recently introduced the automatic check-in service for users of the Fly Delta application and began testing biometrics as a boarding pass at DCA Airport and its new E-Gate experience in Atlanta. Last year, Delta led the industry with a number of innovative customer solutions such as biometrics and self-service in baggage handling, baggage handling with RFID technology, real-time baggage tracking via Fly Delta mobile application, automated inspection conveyor more efficient and high tech, and an innovative application that helps Delta pilots avoid turbulence while improving comfort during flight. Delta’s partnership with CLEAR provides exclusive fares for SkyMiles members in the United States, facilitating safety inspection at more than 20 American airports.

For more information: http://news.delta.com
Photo: Press Release