Cathay Cargo Terminal Enhances Operations with Advanced Security Innovations

According to a recent publication by IATA, Cathay Cargo terminal is pioneering teh future of warehousing wiht a strong emphasis on security and automation. At the IATA World Cargo Symposium held in Dubai, Mark Watts, the Chief Operating Officer of Cathay Cargo Terminal, proudly announced that they have achieved the new IATA Security Management SystemOpen in new window (SeMS) certification. This makes them the first ground-handling entity in Asia to reach “Operating Status,” which is an impressive milestone for a first-time SeMS certification.

“Security forms the backbone of any cargo terminal at an airport,” Watts remarked. “We’re thrilled to receive this recognition from IATA as it reflects our unwavering dedication to all aspects of security.” He highlighted their innovative use of AI for enhancing intruder detection and monitoring unattended cargo, along with substantial investments in cybersecurity measures aimed at safeguarding customers’ equipment and sensitive information.

The IATA SeMS certification offers a comprehensive framework for managing compliance with regulations while addressing security risks and vulnerabilities effectively. Cathay Cargo Terminal has been praised for its clear security policies,active leadership engagement,and solid compliance mechanisms. This latest achievement complements their existing suite of IATA CEIV accreditations—including CEIV Pharma, CEIV Fresh, CEIV Live Animals, and CEIV Lithium Batteries—and marks them as one of Asia’s early adopters of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification.

The Rise of Autonomous Tractors

In another exciting advancement, Cathay Cargo Terminal has been testing autonomous electric tractors (AETs) designed for seamless towing operations from within the terminal directly to Hong Kong International Airport’s cargo apron. During these trials, fully autonomous electric tow-tractors successfully maneuvered four cargo dollies into position at designated transfer gates within Cathay’s facility before transporting loaded goods out to distant aprons where they were prepared for loading onto flights.

The enhanced security features enable these tractors to be digitally checked both into and out of the terminal without compromising safety protocols. This initiative is part of a collaborative project involving Cathay Cargo Terminal alongside Airport Authority Hong Kong and UISEEOpen in new window, one prominent player in China’s autonomous driving sector.

“This trial serves as crucial proof-of-concept,” watts noted. “It demonstrates that AETs can handle more sophisticated workflows than previously observed in cargo operations—streamlining manual tasks while considerably boosting operational efficiency.”