• China Eastern Air Logistics Co., Ltd. has partnered with Lödige Industries to deploy six high-capacity automated guided vehicles at Cargo Terminal 4 of Shanghai Pudong International Airport.
• The 10ft AGVs, each capable of moving loads up to 6.8 tonnes, are fully integrated with Lödige’s Cargo Management System, enabling real-time, data-driven control of ULD movements.
• The implementation marks a major step toward fully automated, scalable air cargo handling, enhancing efficiency, safety and 24/7 operational performance at one of China’s key cargo hubs.

China Eastern Air Logistics Co., Ltd. (CEAL) has partnered with Lödige Industries to deploy the latest generation of high-capacity automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for the flexible and fully automated transportation of unit load devices (ULDs). Six 10ft AGVs have now been fully implemented in CEAL’s Cargo Terminal 4 at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. With testing and commissioning successfully completed and the system officially handed over to CEAL, the terminal is set to operate as a next-generation smart cargo facility.

Each AGV is capable of transporting loads of up to 6.8 tonnes, establishing new benchmarks in automation, safety, stability and reliability for air cargo handling. The AGV system is fully integrated with Lödige’s proprietary Cargo Management System (CMS), the Cargo Professional Suite, an advanced terminal management solution that streamlines cargo flow planning, guidance, and tracking. Leveraging real-time data analytics, the system provides visualised insights via mobile devices, enabling precise and efficient cargo management.

“Lödige’s system far exceeded our expectations, completely transforming our operational model. It has made our logistics processes more efficient and adaptable, while fully preparing us for sustained future growth. What impressed us most is how the system seamlessly integrates with existing workflows, delivering a quantum leap in operational capabilities,” said Weddy Pan, Senior Deputy Manager, Operations Quality Management Division, Cargo Terminal Business Development at China Eastern Air Logistics.

According to Nicholas Tripptree, Managing Director of Asia-Pacific at Lödige Industries: “Our AGV system is a powerful enabler of efficiency and automation in air cargo terminals. We’re proud to partner with CEAL to deploy this cutting-edge technology, helping them enhance efficiency, increase flexibility, and set new standards for cargo operations and overall terminal performance.”

The AGVs enhance operational flexibility by reducing reliance on manual transport, optimising routing, reducing dependence on fixed infrastructure, and enabling scalable, dynamic cargo flows. Their data-driven intelligence ensures precise control, minimises the risk of ULD damage, supports 24/7 operations, and allows staff to focus on higher-value tasks. All six AGVs were manufactured in Germany and underwent rigorous testing to ensure consistent quality and performance.

The AGV fleet harmonises with China’s first lift-and-run system, also supplied by Lödige Industries, further boosting throughput and operational intelligence at the terminal.

The partnership between CEAL and Lödige Industries continues to grow, with previous collaborations including an Elevating Transfer Vehicle (ETV) system refurbishment and a Transfer Vehicle (TV) system. These developments underscore a shared commitment to innovation in air cargo logistics and the digital transformation of terminal operations.