Revolutionising air cargo with an integrated digital platform

Revolutionising air cargo with an integrated digital platform

By launching BRUcloud, a collaborative digital platform designed to streamline operations for all stakeholders in the air cargo supply chain, Brussels Airport looking to transform the cargo landscape into a more connected, efficient, and intelligent ecosystem

“BRUcloud isn’t just a platform; it’s a philosophy of collaboration and innovation that unites all players in the air cargo industry under one digital roof,” Johan Leunen, Senior Business and Network Development Manager Cargo at Brussels Airport, explained. “By integrating data and creating transparency, we are solving inefficiencies and driving the future of air cargo.”

BRUcloud is more than a conventional logistics tool. It is a shared open-data platform designed to connect every participant in the air cargo supply chain—airlines, freight forwarders, truckers, handlers, customs authorities, and service providers.

“Our focus is to integrate, not replace. BRUcloud complements existing systems by creating a networked approach to data sharing and decision-making,” Leunen emphasised.

This vision aligns with Brussels Airport’s strategic goal of transitioning from an airport operator to a leading logistics platform, leveraging its position as Europe’s second-largest economic growth engine.

Features and benefits

By offering centralised applications and dashboards, BRUcloud facilitates better communication, transparency, and efficiency. It eliminates scattered data silos, reducing errors and delays.

Stakeholders can now monitor shipment progress, streamline inspections, and improve planning in real time. “Our digital roadmap is aimed at making the air cargo process as seamless and transparent as possible,” Leunen remarked. “From pre-checks to predictive analytics, we are integrating intelligence at every level.”

The added benefit of the tool underscores the Improved Efficiency with Advanced Tools in Applications such as the Perishable Management Application (PMA) and Pharma Dashboard enable sector-specific monitoring, ensuring quality and compliance.

For instance, PMA streamlines the import of perishables by automating inspections, while the Pharma Dashboard tracks pooled equipment KPIs for temperature-controlled goods.

“Sector-focused solutions like these highlight how BRUcloud addresses the unique needs of our partners,” said Leunen.

Sustainability and innovation

BRUcloud’s digital initiatives also emphasise sustainability. Features like the Digital Green Lane reduce paper usage and enhance customs processing. Additionally, predictive insights help optimise resource allocation, reducing unnecessary trucking and energy consumption.

“Environmental responsibility is embedded in our approach,” Leunen asserted. “Digital innovation is not only about efficiency but also about making logistics greener.”

Industry challenges

Air cargo logistics has long struggled with fragmentation and inefficiency. BRUcloud directly addresses these pain points by fostering a community-driven model. It encourages collaboration through partnerships like Air Cargo Belgium, which brings together various stakeholders to tackle common challenges and align goals.

“We created Air Cargo Belgium to strengthen community bonds and promote shared success,” Leunen explained. “This spirit of collaboration is at the heart of BRUcloud.”

The platform has already begun transforming operations at Brussels Airport, which handled 701,000 tonnes of cargo in 2023 across a 120,000 sq m cargo apron and 147,000 sq m of first-line warehouses. With BRUcloud, Brussels Airport has reduced truck waiting times, enhanced transit efficiencies, and provided unmatched service levels in key focus segments like pharma, perishables, e-commerce, and live animals.

“Our geographic location puts us at the crossroads of Europe’s economic centre, and BRUcloud ensures we maximise this advantage,” Leunen said.

Picture of Ajinkya Gurav

Ajinkya Gurav

With a passion for aviation, Ajinkya Gurav graduated from De Montford University with a Master’s degree in Air Transport Management. Over the past decade, he has written insightful analysis and captivating coverage around passenger and cargo operations. Gurav joined Air Cargo Week as its Regional Representative in 2024. Got news or comment to share? Contact ajinkya.gurav@aircargoweek.com

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