CATHAY Cargo Terminal has completed the first end-to-end trial of Autonomous Electric Tractor (AET) operations at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
The trial involved a fully autonomous electric tow-tractor pulling four cargo dollies into the Cathay Cargo Terminal and driving itself to the correct cargo transfer gate for loading.
After loading, the AET drove itself out of the terminal and successfully completed its journey across HKIA to the furthest cargo apron, the WCA, delivering the cargo ready to be loaded directly onto a Cathay Cargo flight.
The project is a collaborative effort between Cathay Cargo Terminal, the Airport Authority Hong Kong, and UISEE, a Chinese autonomous driving company.
Cathay said the breakthrough not only streamlines cargo movement, but also strengthens operational safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Cathay detailed the precise docking solution, a unique feature of the initiative, enabling the AETʼs towing dolly chains to automatically align with the transfer deck for seamless Unit Load Device (ULD) loading.
Enhanced security features also reportedly allow the AET to be digitally checked into and out of the terminal without compromising security.
Cathay Cargo Terminal chief operating officer Mark Watts said, “This has been an important proof-of-concept to show that AETs are capable of more advanced workflows than we have seen so far for cargo, reducing manual processes and significantly enhancing operational efficiency”.
“This also improves overall cargo flow at the worldʼs busiest cargo hub and significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with traditional ground service equipment.”
In addition to ongoing trials with AETs, Cathay Cargo Terminal is also piloting the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for its non-electric cargo tractors.
Described as a renewable alternative to fossil-based diesel, data suggests HVO may have the ability to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by approximately 80-90%.
Cathayʼs Mark Watts said “HVO is a very important step, but continued electrification is the ultimate vision to help us reduce carbon emissions and pursue Cathayʼs digital and sustainability leadership”.
Airport Authority Hong Kong acting deputy director, airport operations Wing Yeung said, “This new milestone reinforces HKIAʼs leadership in smart logistics and sustainable aviation development, paving the way for further advancements in autonomous vehicle solutions in cargo-handling”.
“The successful deployment of AETs in end-to-end cargo operations reflects the HKIA communityʼs continuous efforts in the adoption of smart airport initiatives and to reinforce the airportʼs position as a global aviation hub.”
