SATS Cargo is now using Autonomous Cargo Vehicles (ACVs) to accelerate cargo movements for freight forwarders and cargo agents within the Changi Airfreight Centre at Singapore Changi Airport.
The ACVs are part of a new integrated transport service to move cargo between SATS’ airfreight terminals and freight forwarders’ warehouses within the Changi Airfreight Centre, which is within a free trade zone.
SATS said the service is currently being validated under live operating conditions as it progresses towards full deployment.
The ACV model used in the pilot can transport up to 800 kg of cargo and automate routine point-to-point movements between SATS’ airfreight terminals and freight forwarders’ warehouses.
As demand grows, the solution can be scaled through the deployment of higher capacity ACV models capable of carrying up to 1,500 kg as well as the potential to support round-the-clock operations, explained SATS.
By shifting routine cargo movements towards an on-demand, scalable model, ACVs are anticipated to help accelerate cargo collection and delivery while reducing reliance on truck and driver schedules.
Henry Low, chief executive, SATS SG Hub, said: “Autonomous transportation allows us to rethink how cargo moves through the airport ecosystem — shifting routine movements towards an on-demand, scalable model.
“By integrating it into our operations, we can unlock capacity, strengthen resilience and augment the capabilities of our people, while delivering greater speed and reliability for our customers.
“This is how we are building a more intelligent and responsive Singapore air cargo hub for the future.”
SATS worked closely with Changi Airport Group to deploy and validate the ACVs within the airport’s autonomous vehicle operational and safety framework.
The collaboration enables new technology to be tested and progressively integrated into live cargo operations while meeting the safety and operational requirements of the Changi air cargo ecosystem, noted SATS.
As fully electric vehicles, the ACVs also support the transition towards more sustainable cargo transportation within the airport environment.
The initiative forms part of SATS Singapore Hub’s Hub Handler of the Future programme, announced in October 2025, which aims to increase capacity, improve visibility and strengthen operational resilience.
