Monday, April 14, 2025 The Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal (CPCT) has successfully completed its first end-to-end manned tow truck trial programme, transporting cargo directly from the cargo terminal to the west cargo apron of the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).

The fully-automated unmanned trailer towed four trailers into the CXC Terminal and drove them to the correct cargo transhipment gate for loading. Once loaded, the trailer leaves the terminal and transports the cargo to the western cargo apron at the farthest end of Hong Kong International Airport, where it is ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Pacific cargo flight.

One of the highlights of the trial is the precision alignment technology, which enables the unmanned trailer to automatically align the trailer with the transhipment platform and load containers onto the trailer with precision. In addition, the system is equipped with advanced security features that enable it to enter and exit the cargo terminal automatically without compromising security.

The project is a collaboration between Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminals, the Airport Authority of Hong Kong and UISEE, the leading driverless technology company in the Mainland. This breakthrough not only streamlines cargo processes, but also enhances operational safety, efficiency and sustainability.

Mark Watts, Chief Executive Officer of Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminals, said: "The pilot programme is an important proof of concept that driverless trailers are capable of performing more advanced workflows that not only reduce manual handling, but also greatly enhance operational efficiency. It will also enhance Hong Kong's overall cargo flow as an international freight hub and effectively reduce the carbon emissions associated with conventional ground handling equipment."

In addition to the ongoing pilot scheme on driverless trailers, CXT is also piloting the use of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) on non-electric trailers. HVO is a renewable alternative to diesel fuel and, according to industry data, can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by about 80 to 90 per cent.

Cathay Pacific Warmack added: "The adoption of HVO is a very important step, but the continued push towards electrification is our ultimate vision to reduce carbon emissions and further realise Cathay's leadership in digitisation and sustainability."

This new milestone reinforces HKIA's leadership in smart logistics and sustainable aviation by enabling unmanned solutions for cargo handling," said Mr Yeung Tat-wing, Acting Deputy Director of Airport Operations of the Airport Authority of Hong Kong. The successful application of a driverless trailer to end-to-end cargo operations demonstrates the HKIA industry's commitment to adopting smart airport innovations and further strengthens HKIA's position as a global aviation hub."

For more information about Cathay Pacific Cargo Terminal, please visit: www.cathaycargoterminal.com.