Finnair Cargo has signed an agreement with Mercator,  leading provider of software and technology-led solutions to the global aviation industry, for its air cargo management solution, SkyChain. The solution is scheduled to be implemented by October 2016, six months ahead of the opening of Finnair’s new cargo terminal in spring 2017.

“We are very pleased to have Mercator as our partner in this important project. SkyChain will be an essential tool for us for years to come,” said Janne Tarvainen, Finnair’s VP head of cargo. “The new system, alongside our investment in a new cargo terminal, will ensure we revolutionise Finnair’s cargo capability for our customers and partners.”

The new terminal is an integral part of Finnair’s future growth plans as the new A350 XWB aircraft fleet will bring 50 per cent more cargo capacity by 2020. The Mercator platform and new cargo terminal will ensure the smooth scaling and handling of Finnair’s cargo volumes, the carrier said.

“SkyChain is a next-generation air cargo management solution that supports warehouse automatisation, while enabling greatly improved planning and process optimisation,” commented Cormac Whelan, CEO of Mercator. “Some of the most significant benefits delivered by SkyChain are advanced cargo capacity planning, as well as process steering capabilities.”