SIA Cargo launches e-freight initiative with London and Amsterdam

SINGAPORE Airlines (SIA) Cargo has taken a step towards achieving a paperless environment for airfreight worldwide through the exchange of information electronically.

The paper-free era for SIA Cargo began with the simultaneous launch of e-freight shipment services between Singapore, London and Amsterdam. The carrier said it also plans to start e-freight trials between Singapore and Hong Kong from November 16.

The launch of the e-freight initiative is the culmination of several months' work with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to promote the use of electronic information exchange within the global airfreight industry. SIA Cargo also revealed in a statement that it has been engaging key industry players such as freight forwarders, ground handlers, customs and airport authorities at several locations to prepare a pilot programme.

"Pushing for cost efficiency is a key priority, and the e-freight initiative will benefit all in the supply chain by eliminating documentation that costs over a billion dollars a year. I thank all the key industry players for their dedication, teamwork and commitment to make this historic project a success," said SIA Cargo president Goh Choon Phong, in a company release.

"Moreover, replacing paperwork with electronic information is also in line with our corporate mission to keep our operations environmentally friendly," he added.