Cargolux International, S.A., the leading global all-cargo carrier, has agreed to become the first airline to carry AAR Telair’s full line of CAEROe ® advanced light-weight unit load devices (ULDs). Cargolux launched the CAEROe ® product portfolio of cookie sheet pallets, heavy gross weight pallets and fuel-saving containers on its Boeing 747s.

The CAEROe ® (pronounced zero) pallets are up to 40 percent lighter than standard all-aluminum ULDs but can carry more weight without additional strapping to the aircraft structure. The pallets are certified for strapping the maximum allowable load against the pallet edge rails by using tie-downs. This way, fewer ULD positions get blocked during heavy weight transport, providing extra space and, potentially, more revenue for the customer.

“The increased capacity in addition to the fuel and time savings we gain from using the CAEROe ® product line will provide the airline with a unique opportunity to increase mainstream revenue while at the same time save money and reduce carbon emissions,” said Onno Pietersma Sr. Vice President, Maintenance and Engineering, for Cargolux. “We’re excited to launch this new product line for Telair and believe CAEROe ® will set a new industry standard.”

By working closely with the industry on cargo loading systems, Telair’s designers observed mismatches between ULDs and aircraft capabilities. The CAEROe ® product line addresses common challenges. The containers can be flat-packed for delivery and on-site assembly, and have doors that swing open the full width of the ULD for easier loading.

The ULD base plate, which is extra thick and stiff, has been tested by Telair to last up to three times longer than the industry standard base plates. A similar base plate is used for the CAEROe ® containers in the lower deck cargo compartments. It is also coupled with Telair’s state-of-the-art automated RFID ULD Tracking Technology for a Complete Cargo Competence ® solution.

“Add durability to the fuel savings and increased capacity they are getting, and CAEROe ® customers will enjoy a competitive advantage,” said Thomas Huber, Containerized Cargo System and CAEROe ® Product Line Manager for Telair International. “We appreciate the faith Cargolux has put in Telair’s products and services and are pleased to have this product launched by the world’s No. 1 ranked freight carrier.”

Telair International has served the airline industry for more than 40 years, with facilities on three continents. AAR, through its Telair and Nordisk subsidiaries, is the premier designer and manufacturer of advanced cargo loading systems, ULDs and aftermarket services for the world’s airlines and OEMS. The CAEROe ® is the latest in a full line of AAR main-deck and lower-deck cargo systems and a variety of baggage-handling and freight solutions that enable increased payload and fuel savings. More information on Telair can be found at www.telair.com