The International Air Cargo Association (Tiaca) has called for action to address critical challenges being faced by the industry. Speaking at a media day presentation, Tiaca Director-General Glyn Hughes said the industry had demonstrated over the past 12 months how effective it could be when all the supply chain partners united around a common objective, supporting the global community through the Covid pandemic. “Our industry came together initially by transporting PPE and other life essentials, and then mobilised to provide the only effective transport mode to support global vaccine distribution.”
But the road ahead will continue to be a challenging one, and there is a range of issues that need to be prioritised – among them digitalisation, sustainability, safety and security, liberalisation and collaboration.
While Covid-19 has forced the industry to harness the power of data to modernise processes and provide transparent, quality services, digital transformation plans are critical, according to Hughes.
Liberalisation must also be a key focus. “Fair and liberal trade policies will ensure the continued growth of the global economy which relies heavily on effective global air cargo networks. Supportive trade regulations, coupled with fair and liberalised air and ground regulations, will ensure the industry can develop and grow - aligned with market needs.”
“We as an industry must come together to ensure our voice is heard to support trade policies that positively impact the global economy,” Tiaca chair Steven Polmans added. “Success can only be achieved through effective collaboration between supply chain partners, supply chain customers and those who regulate the industry.
“Tiaca is committed to working with its members, the broader industry, association partners and government agencies to ensure we have a united and successful air cargo industry.”