TIACA air cargo forum shifts focus to Middle East’s rising global logistics prominence in 2025
The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has unveiled the comprehensive programme for its Air Cargo Forum (ACF) 2025, slated for 3–6 November at Yas Island Arena in Abu Dhabi. Recognised as a premier global event for the air cargo sector, ACF 2025 aims to convene leading executives, innovators, and policymakers to engage on the dynamic challenges and opportunities within the industry. The forum's agenda covers a broad spectrum of critical topics such as leadership, digital transformation, sustainability, workforce development, and infrastructure growth. This event is poised to provide participants with valuable insights and strategic guidance tailored to the rapidly evolving landscape of global air logistics.
Central to the forum's programme are sessions designed to foster high-level dialogue and actionable outcomes. Fireside chats will feature prominent figures including Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer at Etihad Cargo, who will discuss Abu Dhabi’s strategic logistics positioning, alongside Tom Bradley, Director and General Manager of Amazon Air Cargo, who will outline the company’s future priorities. Senior executives from industry heavyweights like Atlas Air and Swissport will participate in roundtables addressing key sector challenges. The event also emphasises technological advancements, with experts from Awery Aviation Software, IBS Software, and WebCargo by Freightos examining the role of digitalisation in boosting supply chain efficiency.
The Middle East’s burgeoning influence as a global logistics hub is a focal point, with regional leaders exploring infrastructure development during dedicated panels. Workforce issues, including talent acquisition and retention in a competitive market, will be debated by industry specialists. Sustainability discussions will centre on pathways for achieving Net Zero operation targets by 2050, featuring voices from Air France KLM Cargo and Etihad Cargo. Furthermore, innovation through AI, robotics, and automation will be scrutinised to explore how these technologies can revolutionise air cargo processes.
TIACA Chair Steven Polmans expressed confidence that the agenda reflects the complexity and urgency of current industry topics, highlighting the importance of bringing the right stakeholders together. The choice of Abu Dhabi as the venue underscores the Middle East’s ascent in global air logistics, leveraging its strategic location and advanced infrastructure to serve as a critical link between Asia, Europe, and Africa. TIACA Director General Glyn Hughes noted that hosting the forum in this region offers a unique opportunity to integrate global leaders with one of the fastest-growing air cargo ecosystems.
Beyond the formal sessions, ACF 2025 promises a rich array of networking events to deepen industry connections. These include a golf tournament at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, a welcome reception at Del Mar Beach Club, and a connecting cargo reception at Ferrari World. The event will also feature exhibitions and sponsorships, with premium visibility opportunities for companies eager to showcase innovations and services to a targeted audience.
With registration now open, industry professionals are encouraged to secure their place early, as accommodation options are limited. The dynamic agenda continues to expand, ensuring that ACF 2025 will remain at the forefront of air cargo discourse, blending strategic insights with unique cultural and networking experiences in Abu Dhabi.
This marks the first time the Air Cargo Forum will be held in the Middle East as part of its annual rotation between Abu Dhabi and Miami, cementing the global nature of the event while highlighting the region's growing prominence. The forum’s comprehensive programming and strategic location are set to facilitate meaningful exchange, positioning the air cargo sector to navigate the challenges of the next decade effectively.