JAIRM, 2012 – 2(2), 101-123 Online ISSN: 2014-4806 - Print ISSN: 2014-4865 http://dx.doi.org/10.3926/jairm.8 Optimization of the air cargo supply chain María Pérez Bernala, Susana Val Blascob, Emilio Larrodé Pellicerc, Rubén Sainz Gonzálezd ai2 Technologies, bZaragoza Logistics Center, cUniversidad e Zaragoza, dUniversidad de Cantabria (Spain)
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[email protected] Received June, 2012 Accepted December, 2012 Abstract Purpose: This paper aims to evaluate and optimize the various operations within the air cargo chain. It pursues to improve the efficiency of the air cargo supply chain and to provide more information to the decision-makers to optimize their fields. Design/methodology/approach: The method used is a process simulation modelling software, WITNESS, which provides information to the decision-makers about the most relevant parameters subject to optimization. The input for the simulation is obtained from a qualitative analysis of the air cargo supply chain with the involved agents and from a study of the external trade by air mode, given that their behaviour depend on the location. The case study is focused on a particular location, the Case of Zaragoza Airport (Spain). Findings: This paper demonstrates that efficiency of the air cargo supply chain can increase by leveraging several parameters such as bottlenecks, resources or warehouses. Originality/value: It explores the use of a simulation modeling software originally intended for manufacturing processes and extended to support decision making processes in the area of air cargo. 101 Journal of Airline and Airport Management 2(2), 101-123 Keywords: Air Cargo, Air Transport, Simulation, Bottlenecks, Agents 1.