Jettainer, Etihad renew partnership to launch new smart ULDs

When Jettainer releases its new generation of “smart ULD” containers, they will fly first on Etihad Airways, according to a renewed five-year partnership the two companies made formal today.

Between now and 2021, Abu Dhabi-based Etihad and ULD servicing firm Jettainer will continue their existing cooperation agreement, in which Jettainer will manage Ethad’s fleet of outsourced ULDs. David Kerr, senior vice president of Etihad, said the ongoing relationship will ensure that the carrier’s customers will receive “consistent delivery of products and services.”

At some point during this timeline, Jettainer said it is expecting to launch a new line of smart ULDs, which will be equipped with track-and trace systems to autonomously monitor the container’s position, inside temperature and maintenance status during its journey.

The partnership between Etihad and Jettainer has been instrumental in making Abu Dhabi a key hub, said Carsten Hernig, managing director of Jettainer. “The trust we’ve now been given is a confirmation of our work and an incentive to continue to convince through our best service in the future,” he added.

Etihad Cargo will be Jettainer’s first customer for the smart containers, which will be fitted with GPS for real-time traceability, and will be constantly monitored for changes in temperature, shocks and other external influences.

Jettainer, however, did not provide a date for the launch of the smart ULDs.