The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has underscored the need for ongoing improvements in digitalization, safety, and global standards within the air cargo sector. At its recent summit in Peru, Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, highlighted that strengthening these areas will build resilience against operational and geopolitical challenges. Central to these efforts is the adoption of the ONE Record data-sharing standard, which aims to unify cargo data exchange and is already on track with over 70% of global air waybill volumes participating.
To address safety, IATA advocates for modernization of dangerous goods regulations, which currently involve over 1,200 variations across different jurisdictions. Aligning these standards with the ICAO Annex 18 framework aims to enhance safety management. Additionally, fair allocation of airport slots, especially at major hubs like Dubai and Heathrow, is critical to maintain operational flexibility. IATA calls for transparent, principles-based slot allocation, ensuring equitable access for cargo carriers.
Safety and security concerns remain at the forefront, with initiatives to modernize dangerous goods handling and cargo security processes. Efforts include broader adoption of electronic Cargo Security Declarations (CSD), which will streamline compliance and bolster security. Sullivan emphasized that collaboration between governments and industry stakeholders is vital for sustaining secure and efficient supply chains.
Supporting these initiatives, recent reports show that air cargo facilitated $157 billion in U.S. imports in early 2025 and transported more than two-thirds of global AI-related goods. The industry demonstrated flexibility by quickly re-routing high-value shipments in response to trade shocks, highlighting its significance for economic resilience. Sullivan concluded that air cargo remains essential for rapid and secure global trade, especially as technological investments and supply chain complexities grow.
