Delta Airlines has introduced Bluetooth tracking technology for its air cargo operations. The airline believes that it will soon become the first US airline to provide real time tracking for its unit load devices.

Delta Airlines’ Delta Cargo division handles more than 500,000 tonnes of air cargo annually. The new technology replaces manual tracking for shipping containers (ULDs) that move cargo shipments, mail and baggage around the world.

Shawn Cole, Delta vice president – cargo, said: “Our innovative tracking technology, in conjunction with our 24/7 cargo control centre, gives us the competitive edge when it comes to serving our customers.”

According to Delta, the new Bluetooth tracking system will enable the airline to produce ‘electronic unit control receipts’ that are required by IATA when ULDs are transferred between handlers.