The project was awarded first place in the Start-up and Small Business category, primarily coordinated by the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML.
The prize recognizes companies and industry initiatives committed to more sustainable air freight. The award is considered a milestone for the research test field towards the digitization and automation of air freight, it was said.
Among other criteria, the jury was convinced that the DTAC has an impact on the attractiveness of jobs at the airport as well as on the education and curiosity of the next generation, it was noted. For example, the DTAC robots recently appeared in a Japanese
school textbook and in hands-on workshops with Munich elementary school children.
Karsten Wildberger, Federal Minister for Digitization and State Modernization:
“The renewed international recognition for the Digital Test Field Air Cargo is a strong sign of Germany's innovation power. It clearly shows how technology use not only increases efficiency but also simultaneously promotes sustainability. Such projects are crucial for the development of a digital Germany that sets international standards.”
This year, The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) is awarding the "Air Cargo Sustainability Award" for the seventh time. The award is presented in collaboration with Champ Cargosystems. The two categories for start-ups and small businesses, as
well as for companies and established firms, were evaluated.
The jury consists of seven industry leaders and sustainability experts. Submissions were evaluated based on a number of criteria, including impact on society and industry, ease of implementation, innovation, and the "wow factor."
The "Digital Test Field Air Cargo" is a research project funded by the Ministry for Digital Affairs and State Modernization (BMDS) with a total volume of over 18 million euros, developing digital applications for air freight. The goal is a more efficient transport chain through better connectivity and digital process optimization.
Following the first project phase from 2021 to 2024, the second phase is
currently running until August 2026. The focus is on further development and implementation of new technologies such as ONE Record, AI, automation, and eCommerce integration. Additionally, predictive analytics and digital avatars are being researched to create innovative solutions for air freight logistics.
The project is being implemented in close collaboration with existing consortium partners from the air freight sector, including the airports of Frankfurt, Cologne, Leipzig, and Munich, as well as companies like CHI Deutschland Cargo Handling GmbH, DB Schenker, Lufthansa Cargo AG, and Sovereign Speed GmbH. Moreover, LUG Aircargo Handling GmbH is part of the project as an associated partner and strengthens the team as
