Air cargo logistics automation and digital airport process management: comprehensive empirical insights from Germany

Purpose This paper investigates an integration of automation and digital technologies within air cargo logistics, focusing on empirical testing of the O3dyn pallet transport robot prototype at Munich Airport. The presented research identifies challenges and opportunities regarding dynamic airport environments, enhancing understanding of technology implementation and its implications for operational efficiency. Design/methodology/approach The conducted research employs an empirical methodology involving 10 days of real-world testing. This includes defining test parameters, documenting operational metrics and monitoring interactions toward other robotic systems. Various scenarios were tested to assess the system's effectiveness in navigating complex airport environments, collecting data on travel times, load weights, manual interventions and operational challenges relevant to air cargo handling. Findings The findings indicate that while the robot effectively performed transport tasks in a dynamic airport environment, its autonomy was limited, necessitating significant human intervention. Challenges included obstacle detection and navigation, indicating a need for further development in real-time decision-making and integration with logistics processes. Research limitations/implications The focus on a single airport may not fully capture broader challenges, and the short testing duration may overlook various operational scenarios. Future research should involve multiple and diverse environments and longer periods of data capturing for more comprehensive insights into air cargo handling systems. Practical implications This study provides guidance for air cargo logistics stakeholders, highlighting critical investment areas and the need for collaboration among industry partners to overcome automation barriers and challenges. Originality/value This paper presents unique empirical findings on air cargo robotics, demonstrating their practical implications and advancing the understanding of automation in dynamic airport environments.