Cathay Pacific rolls out electronic air waybills in Singapore and Malaysia, boosting airfreight industry efficiency
With e-AWB extended to Cathay Pacific’s overseas stations in Singapore and Malaysia, shippers now stand to benefit from reduced costs, faster customs clearance, the elimination of problems resulting from loss or misplaced documents, and reduced paper wastage.
Cathay Pacific Director Cargo Nick Rhodes said: “This is an important development for Cathay Pacific and the airfreight industry in general as we are the first airline to implement e-AWB outside its home base. The e-AWB programme has brought improved operational efficiency and accuracy for the airfreight industry in Hong Kong and we are delighted to extend these benefits to customers in Singapore and Malaysia.”
Mr Rhodes said that Cathay Pacific will continue to take the lead in this important area, working closely with service partner Global Logistics System HK Ltd towards implementing 100% e-AWB throughout the airline’s network by 2014.
Global Logistics System HK Ltd (GLSHK) Chief Executive Officer Lionel Kwok said: “A year ago, we made history by facilitating 100% e-AWB implementation for Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong. Today, we are honoured to play a part in continuing this e-initiative in Cathay Pacific’s overseas stations using our sophisticated e-freight solution.
“GLSHK is committed to promoting electronic developments, using upgraded technology to provide customized solutions to cater to the needs of the airfreight industry worldwide,” Mr Kwok added.
Electronic freight and electronic air waybills are initiatives covered under the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) “Simplifying the Business” Programme, which aims to change the way the air transport industry operates and result in better services for cargo operators and lower costs for the industry. IATA targets to have 100% e-AWB globally by the end of 2014 and 100% e-Freight by end of 2015.
