dnata launches cool dollies operations in Singapore Changi Airport

October 8, 2020: The air services provider dnata has enhanced its pharma handling capabilities in Singapore Changi Airport by launching cool dollies in its operations.

The company’s new, high-tech containers are specially designed to serve the pharmaceutical industry with a closed temperature-controlled system for delivery of temp-sensitive goods between cargo warehouses and aircraft. dnata is the first cargo handler to operate cool dollies at Singapore Changi Airport.

Providing temperature-controlled storage from -18°C up to +25°C, the cool dollies mitigate the risk of temperature deviations and contamination. They have a closed structure with alarms on opening and closing, as well as alerts if temperatures fluctuate above acceptable ranges. As they are fitted with solar panels, the cool dollies are both environmentally friendly and autonomous. The units are also hygienic and easy to clean, which is an important consideration for pharma cargo.

Dirk Goovaerts, regional CEO for the Asia Pacific, dnata, said: “It has become increasingly crucial for both airlines and freight forwarders to be supported by a reliable, certified handler that can protect their pharma shipments and ensure the products remain in perfect condition until they reach the end customer.”

dnata operates a state-of-the-art, 1,400m² pharma and perishable handling centre at Changi Airport, which is capable of processing 75,000 tonnes of temperature-sensitive goods annually. It enables dnata’s cargo team to offer an uncompromised temperature-controlled handling and storage solution to airline customers in Singapore.

Law Chung Ming, Director for Transport and Logistics, Enterprise Singapore (ESG), said: “dnata’s partnership with local SME, Monzone, which provided the technical expertise for the development of Changi Airport’s first cool dollies, is testament of our ability to co-develop solutions to meet the region’s growing pharmaceutical needs. We look forward to facilitating more collaborations between corporates and our local SMEs, to drive the adoption of innovative solutions.”

Lim Ching Kiat, managing director, Air Hub Development, Changi Airport Group (CAG), said: “Pharmaceuticals and perishables shipments are highly sensitive to temperature fluctuation and require stringent temperature control to maintain product effectiveness and freshness. The cool dolly services further enhance Singapore as a reliable and quality air hub for pharma and perishables products. Through close collaboration with our air cargo community, Changi Airport is committed to continuously develop our cold chain handling capabilities, providing shippers with the assurance of safe, reliable and efficient air transportation for their special cargo. Changi currently features the largest IATA CEIV Pharma certified air cargo community in Asia Pacific. Together with our community, we are preparing for the effective global air transportation of Covid-19 vaccines.”