The Hindu Business Line : Tokyo airport cargo terminal opts for IBS product

Thiruvananthapuram, May 28 The Tokyo International Air Cargo Terminal Ltd (TIACT) has become the latest air cargo terminal operator to integrate the new version of ‘iCargo’, the new-generation cargo management system from the IBS Group.

The IBS Group is a leading global provider of new-generation IT solutions to the travel, transportation and logistics industries. iCargo’s operations module will manage the new cargo terminal at Tokyo International Airport, also known as Haneda Airport.

The airport is currently undergoing expansion in terms of both capacity and technology and is scheduled to be fully functional by October 2010.

iCargo will provide Haneda with an integrated system that will optimise operations, enhance profitability and provide the scalability to manage increasing volumes of cargo. It is designed to manage ground handling and warehousing of all cargo processed through the airport.

Growing acceptance

Speaking to newspersons here, Mr V.K. Mathews, Chairman and CEO, IBS Group, said that the deal with TIACT signified growing acceptance of IBS’ new-generation cargo solutions in Japan, one of the principal markets for global air cargo businesses. Nippon Cargo Airlines and All Nippon Airways, two of Japan’s leading carriers, have already deployed iCargo for managing their cargo businesses.

According to Mr Terutake Kato, President and CEO, TIACT, the Haneda Airport has great potential to become the main portal to Japan in the near future.

“We chose IBS due to its extensive experience and know-how in the airline cargo industry. We foresee IBS facilitating efficient processes and handling the complex nature of cargo terminal operations. We look forward to developing this into a long-term engagement,” he said.

Web-enabled features

The iCargo’s module will provide Haneda airport a wide range of Web-enabled features from reserving airway bills, taking shipment on export, and receiving cargo as import, to final delivery of the shipment to the consignee.

The system provides for guidance and control of trucks, critical to managing influx of transport, and supports radio communications through hand-held terminals.

The air cargo facilities provided by the new terminal will give operators easy access to central Tokyo.