American Airlines Cargo continues the modernization of its business with the completion of digital Air Mail Handling and Mail Revenue Accounting modules from IBS Software's iCargo system. This deployment, which was completed in late August, was the final transition necessary to complete the multi-year modernization effort that replaces the cargo business's technology platform.
The effort, which simplifies the cargo IT landscape by reducing the number of systems from 90 to 10, manages all aspects of the business in a more unified, digital platform and streamlines both the team member and customer experience. The new iCargo system offers an array of benefits, including enhanced visibility and tracking, real time status updates, reduced paper use through digitization, and increased self-serve features – such as flight search and pricing tools – available online for customers.
Many of the final implementations took place as teams moved to a virtual work environment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, the airline launched its cargo-only schedule in March in response to the drastic drop in capacity across the industry. The enhanced technology enabled teams to better communicate with customers and offer new solutions in a time where keeping cargo moving was especially critical.
"Completing the transition to iCargo is a critical step in digitalizing our global air cargo business. Air cargo has played a vital role during the pandemic, and it is important that we continue to innovate and press ahead with our digital strategy as we look toward the future," said Angela Hudson, Head of Transformation for American Airlines Cargo. "Our entire team owned this transition and have been working side-by-side to leverage our new tools with customers in mind."
"The successful go-live of the iCargo platform at American Airlines Cargo is a testament to the commitment that iCargo and IBS Software brings to the global air cargo business. American has an incredible team running an intensive air cargo schedule, especially now with their cargo-only flight schedule, and we're delighted that iCargo will be playing a critical role in helping them achieve that," said Ashok Rajan, Senior Vice President and Head of Cargo & Logistics at IBS Software.
American Airlines Cargo launched its initial cargo-only flights in March of this year and operated nearly 1,000 cargo-only flights in October to keep cargo moving around the globe.
American Airlines Cargo provides one of the largest cargo networks in the world with cargo terminals and interline connections across the globe. Every day, American transports cargo between major cities in the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Latin America and Asia.
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