Singapore Airlines and IBS Software Collaborate to Transform Air Cargo Operations

TechnoparkToday July 2024: Singapore Airlines, a global leader in aviation, has partnered with IBS Software, a prominent SaaS solutions provider to the travel industry, to co-develop a cutting-edge shipment record solution. This collaboration aims to significantly advance the digital transformation of air cargo operations and align with the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) ONE Record standards by digitizing shipment records and leveraging advanced technology.

In collaboration with Cargo Community Network (CCN), the two companies have successfully completed the initial phase of this ambitious project. This phase involves the creation and sharing of shipment records across airlines, cargo community system providers, and ground handling agents on the ONE Record platform. CCN’s open data collaboration platform, CUBEforall, plays a crucial role by enhancing data exchange and transparency, while seamlessly integrating legacy systems with ONE Record standards. This significant achievement was highlighted during the IATA ONE Record roadshow in Singapore on July 23, 2024.

Shipment records are a cornerstone of air cargo operations, underpinning key processes such as sales, planning, and execution. Traditionally, handling these records involves multiple copies and physical, paper-based documentation, leading to inefficiencies. By embracing new technology, Singapore Airlines and IBS Software aim to streamline these processes, thereby boosting operational efficiency.

Through the digitization of shipment records under ONE Record, Singapore Airlines will maintain a unified, accurate data source, which will extend beyond the physical lifecycle of shipments. This streamlined data exchange will enhance transparency and visibility across various aspects of air cargo operations, including reporting, revenue accounting, and future planning. IBS Software’s platform will ensure that shipment data is easily accessible to all partners in the air cargo supply chain, from airlines to shippers.

Digital shipment records are seen as a crucial element for the future of air cargo, addressing the challenges posed by outdated legacy systems, data duplication, and compromised data integrity. The successful implementation of this solution marks a significant step forward for Singapore Airlines, laying the groundwork for future innovations aimed at further enhancing operational efficiencies.

Ashok Rajan, Head of Cargo and Logistics Solutions at IBS Software, commented, “Partnering with Singapore Airlines, a globally recognized leader in aviation innovation, to drive the digital future of air cargo is a major milestone for IBS Software. In today’s cargo industry, data accessibility and transparency are paramount. Digitalization and data are key enablers for developing solutions that allow cargo carriers to grow and meet their customers’ evolving needs. We are proud to have the support of an industry pioneer like Singapore Airlines in enhancing accessibility and excellence in the digitalization of air cargo.”

Marvin Tan, Senior Vice President of Cargo at Singapore Airlines, added, “At Singapore Airlines, we are committed to continuous investment and innovation in all aspects of our business. By co-developing a digital shipment record solution with IBS Software, we are dedicated to meeting IATA’s ONE Record goals for enhanced data visibility for all our stakeholders. This collaboration places both organizations at the forefront of cargo digitalization, enabling us to unlock new efficiencies, create business opportunities, and respond to the evolving needs of the industry.”