Dnata, provider of air and travel services in the Middle East, has announced the completion of a proof-of-concept examining blockchain’s potential in the Dubai air cargo industry.

The pilot saw participation from project partners IBM, Emirates Innovation Lab and Flydubai Cargo, and looked at blockchain’s potential to address issues across various aspects of airfreight, including security and operations, as well as legal aspects, a press release indicates.

The “successful” trial was conducted on a jointly developed logistics platform, utilizing blockchain for supply chain transactions, taking a purchase order from the origin to the final destination.

Stating that blockchain technology and its potential is neither easy to understand or appreciate, Neetan Chopra, senior vice president for IT strategic services at Emirates Group, said:

“It is imperative to carry out such business experiments and trials so that participants can experience the benefits of breakthrough technologies in a live environment.”

The move follows the release of white paper by air transport IT firm SITA, detailing the use of smart contracts in the air transport industry. While, Air France is also testing blockchain technology for supply chain tracking.

Air cargo image via Shutterstock