WTCE issue: Waste not with Onboard Logistics
This is a special feature from PAX International's May 2024 WTCE issue, on page 52.
The Flex-e-Drawer was developed
to optimize space and efficiency
during inflight services
Onboard Logistics is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year. Through the last two decades, the company has become synonymous with innovative solutions that streamline inflight operations and reduce waste. Director Nicky Beades spoke with PAX International about the company’s successes along the way, and a glimpse into what the future could hold. Beades, who retired from Aer Lingus after a distinguished career spanning 31 years, joined forces with long-time engineering friend Tommy Walsh to establish Onboard Logistics in 2003. Having worn many hats at Aer Lingus, from catering administration to overseeing flight kitchen operations, Beades had a unique goal.
“I wanted to find a way to reduce weight on the aircraft and prevent so much waste from going to landfill, which the airline had to pay for removal by weight,” he explains.
Onboard Logistics’ Flex-e-Bag is a two-piece unit consisting
of a registered designed plastic disposable frame and
bag, reducing both weight and waste disposal expenses
Onboard Logistics’ breakthrough came in the form of the Flex-e-Bag, a revolutionary concept that transformed waste management on flights. Traditionally, cabin waste was collected in cardboard boxes and sent to landfill. The cardboard would become soaked from the waste, adding unnecessary weight and cost to the operation. The Flex-e-Bag is a two-piece unit consisting of a registered designed plastic disposable frame and a designed plastic disposable bag. When the Flex-e-Bag is full, the crew can snap the frame to seal the bag or leave it in the trolley for flight kitchen to dispose of. The disposable frame can be sent for recycling; the contents go to landfill. It reduces both weight and waste disposal expenses.
The success story continues as Onboard Logistics showcased its Flex-e-Bag at the ITCA tradeshow in 2003, winning a Mercury Award for its simplicity and effectiveness. This recognition spurred further innovation, leading to the development of the Flex-e-Clip designed for half galley trolley. It clips to the trolley for efficient waste collection.
Responding to delegates’ feedback through the years, Flex-e-Drawer was developed to optimize space and efficiency during inflight services. Using Flex-e-Bag and Flex-e-Drawer together converts a meal trolley into a waste trolley. Looking ahead, Onboard Logistics plans to expand its customer base, increase its presence at industry events such as WTCE, and continue developing solutions to meet evolving aviation needs. Onboard Logistics will be at booth 1F104.
