Swiss airports will use a Blockchain technology based program

Swissport, the ground handling service provider for Swiss airports, launches a Blockchain-based pilot program. The program will be launched in collaboration with Olam, a nonprofit organization that aims to develop an open source platform for partners in the distribution chain.

Hendrik Leyssens, head of global operations at Swissport, said Blockchain could shorten the duration of transactions, improve security and reduce operational costs. "Thinking beyond traditional messages, Blockchain could become the new standard that will allow us to overcome the chronic lack of transparency that is characteristic of fragmented supply chains," Leyssens said.

Swissport will not apply this program just for handling the cargo. The program will also be implemented in collaboration with Winding Tree, a B2B-based B2B booking platform based on Blockchain, which is already working with Lufthansa in this regard. The partnership between Switzerland, Swissport, and Winding Tree will initially focus on applying technology to classical tourist services to independent travelers, such as access to airport lounges.

"We expect to obtain sustainable benefits from this technology for globally fragmented industries such as aviation services and the supply chain. Blockchain technology will change how service providers, customers, and partners will trade with each other. We want to get acquainted with this type of technology at the beginning of the innovation process and collaborate with technology leaders to explore the potential of our business in different uses, "said Florian Eggenschwiler, who oversees Swissport's Innovation Unit.

In recent months, more and more companies, banks, financial institutions and governmental organizations have begun to experience and adopt Blockchain technology. The Samsung giant is considering using a Blockchain platform to manage the network and the global supply chain. Also, Walmart, the well-known hypermarket chain and food store in the United States, recently announced it is ready to use Blockchain technology to reduce waste.