Qatar Airways Cargo has teamed up with software firm, WiseTech Global, for the launch of a direct eBooking solution between their global operating systems.

Qatar Airways said this connection further enhances the flight schedule and operational data exchange implemented last year.

The eBooking connection between WiseTech's CargoWise platform and Qatar Airways Cargo management system, CROAMIS, enables freight forwarders using CargoWise to choose their flight and confirm a booking with Qatar Airways Cargo in real-time, without having to leave the platform.

Similarly, existing bookings made via the solution can be modified.

The e-booking move is an expansion of Qatar Airways and WiseTech's existing partnership covering data.

"Our continued collaboration with WiseTech Global is focused on providing our mutual customers with an enhanced experience, and supporting them with improved visibility, efficiency, and value," said Guillaume Halleux, chief officer of cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo.

Digitalisation strategy

"Our digitalisation strategy remains centered on moving to robust systems, automatic quotations, real-time integrations, and improved reporting. These have become critical in an industry that is moving rapidly towards digital solutions," he added.

Scott McCorquodale, head of airline connectivity at WiseTech Global, for his part said the partnership was "only natural" with Qatar Airways Cargo's strong focus on improving its digital processes.

"There's no denying that the traditional air cargo booking process for many freight forwarders, which relies on communication methods such as telephone calls and emails, is now so glaringly inefficient that they simply must move to the electronic method, or risk being left behind," McCorquodale said.

"The air cargo industry has historically been very manually-based, which contributed to substantial inefficiencies. This has all changed in recent years, with many airlines now firmly prioritising their digital transformation projects."

The WiseTech Global executive said with the new eBooking connection now available to CargoWise users, forwarders are able to confirm their bookings without any input from airline staff – dramatically speeding up the process and allowing forwarders to focus on providing value-added services to their customers."