Trivandrum, India, 27 July 2006 – Australian air Express, Australia’s premier nationwide Express Air Freight Service, has joined the Core Group of Influence (CGI) forum set up by IBS Software Services and will participate in the development of a next generation air cargo and logistics management system, "iCargo". Australian air Express becomes the fifth member of the CGI Forum, which currently includes Air New Zealand Cargo, Gulf Air, South African Airways Cargo and Qantas Freight.
IBS Software Services, a global IT company providing world-class solutions to the Travel Transportation and Logistics (TTL) industry, embarked on the development of iCargo in 2003. The system is a new generation design using the latest web-based tools and multi-tiered architecture, which will be a catalyst for change for cargo carriers within the logistics industry. iCargo will enable the airlines, ground handlers and freight forwarders to enhance cargo business profitability and respond rapidly to changing market conditions.
iCargo will comprehensively address the entire logistics chain from shipper to consignee using web based technologies. A first release of iCargo was made in December 2005 and this addresses the core processes of cargo reservations, capacity control, rating, load planning and consignment tracking. Cargo terminal operations and ground handling requirements will be made available in the second release later this year. As the system evolves, business processes are validated and challenged by the CGI members, ensuring that the product will be a revolutionary step-change for the air cargo industry.
According to VK Mathews, Chairman & Managing Director, IBS Group, "Australian air Express is an extremely valuable additional member of the CGI and we are delighted to welcome them to the Forum. They will undoubtedly bring a new dimension to the process. Their handling of mail, courier and express products will influence the iCargo system and ensure that it meets the requirements of this high volume, performance critical business. The integration of this domestic dominated service with the international business of the other members will make iCargo the leading air cargo system within the next few years."
Wayne Dunne, Executive General Manager, Operations of Australian air Express had this to say: "Australian Air Express is pleased to join and participate in the CGI forum. iCargo has an extensive and impressive range of capabilities. These are particularly attractive to AaE, as the potential exists for iCargo to support both domestic and international business activities on a consolidated new generation platform. AaE looks forward to being an active participant in the CGI Forum."