Air cargo digitalization has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, yet the sector still ranks in the low to mid-tier of digital maturity compared to retail and passenger aviation.
While passengers easily access online booking platforms and digital boarding passes, the cargo carried in the lower deck of the same aircraft operates under different conditions. This disparity stems from the inherent complexity of transporting freight rather than people.
The Complexity of Air Freight Operations
Unlike passenger transport where one person occupies one seat, air freight capacity is highly dynamic. Aircraft holds are limited by both weight and volume, which fluctuate based on passenger baggage, weather conditions, and fuel requirements. Furthermore, cargo shipments vary in shape, size, and commodity type, requiring specific handling conditions such as temperature control.
Regulatory requirements add another layer of difficulty to the process. A single shipment can require more than 30 physical documents, many of which are not yet digitalized or accepted digitally by national authorities. Consequently, developing specific software solutions requires significant investment, while air cargo historically accounts for only 15% of total airline industry revenue.
Current Progress in Air Cargo Digitalization
Despite these hurdles, air cargo digitalization is advancing across the global supply chain. By late 2025, electronic Air Waybill (e-AWB) adoption reached nearly 90% globally. Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) introduced the ONE Record data model to establish a single shipment view for all stakeholders.
IATA aimed for all members to achieve ONE Record capability by January 2026. By December 2025, nearly 50% of the industry reported readiness, and over 70% showed awareness of the standard. Full implementation of this model could unlock an estimated USD 4 billion in operational efficiencies, though only 20% of small forwarders are currently digitalized.
Technological Solutions and Industry Adoption
To address these challenges, companies are deploying artificial intelligence and machine learning to predict capacity and optimize aircraft loads. Additionally, internet of things (IoT) technology enables real-time tracking through smart tags.
Organizations like CargoTech offer 16 digital solutions to manage quoting, booking, pricing, and capacity forecasting. These modular systems are designed to integrate with legacy infrastructure, helping to resolve specific operational difficulties. For instance, AERIOS, a member of CargoTech, has developed digital solutions specifically for cargo charter operations, which were previously managed through manual processes.
Future Outlook and E-commerce Drivers
The growth of global e-commerce is currently driving the demand for faster, more transparent logistics. This shift requires detailed shipment information and automated safety checks, such as those for lithium batteries. As a result, the industry is increasingly adopting automated systems to meet these modern demands.
While legacy systems and varying national regulations continue to slow down universal standards, the transition toward digital operations remains steady. Industry groups continue to provide funding and coordination to accelerate this transition across the global aviation sector.
