Asian Journal of Shipping and Logistics | 2026
Authors: Rodbundith T.S.; Sopadang A.; Lai P.-L.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ajsl.2026.02.002
Journal: Asian Journal of Shipping and Logistics
Year: 2026
Publisher: Korean Association of Shipping and Logistics, Inc.
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Cited by: 0
Asian air cargo terminals are essential components of global logistics networks, yet many remain of declining quality. This work examines whether digitalization improves the efficiency of terminal operations or just further applies technology at a terminal without operational benefit. The findings are underpinned by an interdependent hybrid approach combining the Best–Worst Method (BWM) and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), informed by expert opinion in the Asian air cargo industry. In the BWM results process integration, information system interoperability, and workflow coordination are the most significant dimensions of performance deficiency. Operational risks related to these priorities are evaluated by FMEA. Using Risk Priority Numbers (RPNs), we find that manual documentation, fragmented information flows, and limited system connectivity have the highest probability of failure. According to the analysis, aligning digital efforts with process redesign reduces high-risk RPN scores by about 60–75%, as failure rates decrease and detection rates increase. The findings highlight that improvements in physical capacity are insufficient to achieve performance gains from digitally enabled process alignment in air cargo terminals. It provides meaningful insights for terminal operators to enhance the operating efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness of Asian air cargo terminals. © 2026 The Authors.
Air cargo terminal; Asia; Digitalization; Logistics performance; Operational effectiveness