IATA supports global air cargo digitisation with launch of EPIC platform

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is supporting the international air cargo supply chain digitisation with the launch of its Enhanced Partner Identification and Connectivity (EPIC) platform.

EPIC facilitates quick and easy digital connections in the air cargo value chain and serves as a centralised platform to connect with cargo partners.

The platform helps airlines, freight forwarders and cargo community system (CCS) providers save time and money while enabling immediate new revenue.

It also helps customers retain control of their information through a simplified process.

IATA Senior airport, passenger, cargo, security vice-president Nick Careen said: “EPIC is a simple idea. It makes the information needed to do business across a digitised air cargo supply chain easily accessible.

“And in doing so, it will accelerate efficiency gains for air cargo. The timing of this initiative is important.

“Covid-19 has led to an exponential growth of e-commerce and shippers are demanding quality services that only a digitised supply chain can provide.”

The platform can be leveraged by both IATA members and non-members, freight forwarders and any third party, intermediary or IT provider in the air cargo business.

EPIC is currently implemented by 32 airlines, 900 freight forwarder branches, ten governments/customs authorities, five international organisations and 13 third-party messaging providers.

Last week, Singapore Airlines successfully implemented the IATA Travel Pass mobile application pilot on its flight to London, UK.