Citation:
Guenov, M.D. Intermodal integration of large volume air cargo, Proceedings of
25th International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences, 3-8 September, Hamburg,
Germany, 2006, (Editor I. Grant)
Abstract:
Proposed is a novel air freight concept for intermodal container transport. The
aim is to utilise the standardised (ISO) 20 and 40 foot containers currently in
operation. Instead of a completely new, purpose built aircraft which would be
too expensive, the baseline airframe considered is the planned Airbus freight
configuration, A380-800F. Preliminary calculations show that an aircraft with
the capacity and dimensions of A380 can carry up to six 40’ or up to fourteen
20’ containers as well as combinations of these, depending on load density.
Considered are the necessary aircraft modifications, the cost and weigh
implications, and also the efficiency of the concept. The conclusion is that
such a modification may reduce the payload of the aircraft by about 6%, but the
time savings can be very significant. Furthermore, the seamless integration of
ISO 20’ and 40’ containers has the potential to radically change the air cargo
business as it could become an integral part of the global manufacturing supply
chain. This would extend the traditional air cargo market from perishables,
clothing, high value and fragile items to components and even intermediate
materials, given economies o
