dnata, a Dubai-based provider of ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services, has completed a blockchain proof of concept (PoC) for airfreight transportation in Dubai.

The PoC was conducted in collaboration with Emirates Innovation Lab, flydubai Cargo, and IBM. The project partners jointly developed a blockchain-based logistics platform for supply chain transactions for the complete process – from a purchase order from the origin to delivery to the consignee warehouse at its destination.

According to the official release, the PoC helped the project participants to identify the issues from various perspectives such as technology, security, operation, and legal. They were also able to realise new supply chain services including digitalisation of documents.

“dnata has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the success of our study to use blockchain technology in our operations means greater security, efficiency and cost savings to our customers. We are on the cusp of revolutionising the way we operate, and the success of this initiative with our partners will give the industry a real boost towards seamless service delivery,” Kevin Ennis, Vice President Commercial and Business Development for dnata’s UAE Cargo Operations, said.

Blockchain technology, by digitizing the supply chain, enabled the project partners to eliminate redundant data and improve visibility and transparency for all stakeholders. This helped in streamlining and simplifying the whole process from the origin to the final destination.

“As a result of this collaboration, flydubai Cargo has become the first airline to complete a Proof of Concept (PoC) using blockchain technology in airfreight transportation,” Commenting on the collaboration, Mohamed Hassan, Vice President of flydubai Cargo said.