The digital renaissance

The digital renaissance

With a laser-sharp focus on innovation, automation, and efficiency, AGI is looking to redefine industry standards through the use of cutting-edge technology. From paperless cargo handling to AI-driven safety systems, AGI is showcasing how the future of logistics is not just digital but intelligent.

A legacy of excellence

Founded in 1988, AGI has grown into one of North America’s most trusted ground handling service providers. Operating in major airports across the US and Canada, the company offers a full suite of cargo and ramp handling services. Throughout its history, AGI has been known for its commitment to operational excellence, constantly adapting to evolving industry demands.

Today, this adaptability has helped the company transform into a tech-first powerhouse. Recognising the need for a smarter, more integrated logistics infrastructure, AGI has embraced machine learning and real-time data processing to streamline workflows and improve efficiency.

“Innovation isn’t optional, it’s essential,” AGI CEO Jared Azcuy said. “We’re fully committed to integrating technology at every level, from operations to customer service.”

A tech-driven revolution

AGI’s approach to innovation isn’t about merely adopting new technology, it’s about building an ecosystem where every component works together seamlessly. 

“We wanted to avoid the pitfalls of piecemealing third-party apps together,” AGI Chief Technology Officer Franco Butera explained. “Instead, we built an integrated system where every module is related and works together.”

This fully connected ecosystem ensures that everything from ID verification to payment processing functions cohesively, reducing inefficiency and making processes a whole lot more reliable. 

Bottlenecks meant to be broken 

One of AGI’s standout innovations is called “Skip the Front Counter,” a programme that eliminates the traditional, time-consuming check-in process for truckers. 

“Instead of drivers waiting in long lines, they can check in remotely, reducing congestion and streamlining cargo flow,” AGI COO Gerald Kolasch said.

Skip the Front Counter’s impact has been immediate. Even with just a 17 percent adoption rate, AGI has already seen a drastic reduction in wait times and a more efficient cargo intake process. The company foresees rapid expansion of the programmme, unlocking even greater efficiency gains as its use becomes more widespread.

Paperless cargo handling: Speed and Accuracy at every turn

AGI has also replaced its manual processes with a a paperless cargo handling system, making for a smoother workflow. Forklift operators receive instructions directly on tablets, reducing the time spent retrieving cargo and eliminating costly errors.

“In the past, we relied on paperwork that could get lost or misread. Now, everything is digital, accurate, and instantly accessible,” Kolasch said.

Even their payment processing has been overhauled digitally. AGI’s automated portal eliminates the need for manual transactions, ensuring that every payment is processed instantly and error-free. 

AI in warehouse safety

At AGI, safety isn’t just a priority, they have it down to a data-driven science. The company has deployed AI-powered safety monitoring systems, turning traditional reactive measures into proactive risk prevention strategies. 

“We already had state-of-the-art camera systems, but they were only useful after an incident occurred,” AGI Chief Safety Officer Drew Kofeldt noted. “Now, the AI actively flags risks before they become patterns.”  

Preventing accidents before they happen 

AGI’s AI-integrated cameras detect unsafe behaviours, such as forklift tailgating and improper lifting techniques, reducing collision risks and preventing serious injuries. Test implementation at JFK saw a 50 percent reduction in total claims, a massive improvement in workplace safety. 

Beyond monitoring, AGI is incorporating machine learning for predictive analytics. By analysing cargo flow, truck arrival times, and warehouse movements, AGI can anticipate bottlenecks well before they form, ensuring smooth operations.

Enhancing customer experience through automation

Innovation at AGI isn’t just about internal efficiency, it’s also about elevating the customer experience.

“We’ve designed a system that eliminates errors and inefficiencies, ensuring every transaction is smooth and seamless,” AGI Chief Technology Officer Franco Butera said. 

AI-powered cargo verification

One of AGI’s most innovative tools is its dimension verification technology, an AI-driven system that replaces traditional tape measurements with high-resolution camera scanning. 

“This allows us to capture cargo dimensions with pinpoint accuracy, providing visual proof of cargo condition upon arrival,” Kolasch explained.

 The benefits: 

•Eliminates cargo size discrepancies

•Reduces unexpected fees for airlines and shippers 

•Improves transparency in cargo handling

 By offering instant, real-time weight and dimensional tracking, AGI is cutting inefficiency in cargo billing and in doing so they’re reducing costs for clients as well.

Looking ahead: The year of “institutionalisation”

After a year of relentless innovation, AGI is shifting from the implementation stage to institutionalisation.

“Last year was all about innovation. This year is about adoption, making sure every new system reaches its full potential,” Kolasch declared.

 This means:

•Expanding AI-driven safety measures across all locations 

•Accelerating adoption of digital check-in solutions  

•Refining automated cargo handling 

With this technological edge, AGI isn’t just keeping pace with the industry, it’s actively helping to shape the future of air cargo handling. 

The digital future is now

AGI’s relentless commitment to technology, efficiency, and safety is redefining the possibilities of ground handling service providers. By integrating machine learning, automation, and real-time analytics, the company is in the vanguard, leading the charge when it comes to modern logistics practices. 

“The future of cargo handling is digital, and we’re making that future a reality, right now,” Azcuy emphasised. 

Oscar Sardiñas

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