Hong Kong’s First 5G Private Network Powers a Smart Air Cargo Terminal

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Hong Kong has taken an important step forward in private 5G adoption with the deployment of the city’s first 5G private network at Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited's (Hactl's) SuperTerminal 1. The project, delivered in collaboration with HKT, is designed to modernise one of the world’s most critical air cargo facilities and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a leading logistics hub.

Hactl already plays a central role in the region’s logistics ecosystem, handling more than 40 percent of all cargo moving through Hong Kong International Airport. With the airport continuing to lead global international air cargo rankings, the introduction of a dedicated 5G private network gives Hactl a platform to push automation and digitalisation even further.

The new network brings high speed, low latency and secure connectivity across the terminal. This enables real time coordination between systems and equipment, which is essential for the next wave of automation technologies that Hactl plans to adopt.

One of the first areas to benefit is autonomous mobility. Hactl is introducing Autonomous Electric Tractors that can move cargo across the terminal with continuous updates from the 5G network. Their routes and movements can adapt dynamically to traffic and safety conditions without manual intervention.

Security operations are also receiving an upgrade. Patrol robots equipped with AI-based video analytics are being connected over the private 5G network, allowing them to stream live footage back to the Security Control Centre. This setup supports faster response and continuous monitoring in areas where traditional connectivity would struggle.

Inside the warehouse, 5G is becoming the backbone for smart logistics systems. A new Smart Cargo Locating system relies on real time positioning to track cargo more accurately. Smart Forklifts communicate with one another and the central operations system to optimise racking tasks and reduce human error. These capabilities are part of a wider plan to introduce more robotics, autonomous systems and digital workflows throughout SuperTerminal 1.

Hactl is also preparing to equip staff with new connected devices, including smart handheld terminals, wearables and IoT sensors. The visibility these tools provide should help streamline tasks and improve decision making on the warehouse floor.

The introduction of a private 5G network marks a significant moment for Hong Kong’s logistics industry. It shows how dedicated wireless infrastructure can support secure, real time operations at scale and lays the foundation for more intelligent and automated cargo handling. With this deployment, Hactl and HKT are signalling a clear direction for the future of air cargo operations in one of the world’s busiest logistics hubs.

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