As international trade accelerates through air corridors, the cargo aviation sector faces both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will convene its 2026 Cargo Experts Conference (CEC) in Brussels, creating a unique platform for air freight professionals to address emerging industry trends.
Industry Leaders Unite to Shape Air Cargo's Future
Scheduled for September 22-25, 2026, the Brussels summit will bring together cargo specialists, aviation executives, and innovators from across the globe. Unlike conventional conferences, the CEC adopts an intensive roundtable format designed to foster substantive dialogue and practical collaboration. Participants will exchange insights on critical developments transforming air freight operations worldwide.
Four Key Focus Areas
The conference will feature specialized forums examining pivotal aspects of modern air cargo:
1. Air Cargo Pharma: Next-Generation Medical Logistics
With growing global demand for pharmaceutical transport under stringent safety and timing requirements, this forum explores innovations in temperature-sensitive shipping:
- Advanced temperature control: Next-gen thermal packaging, real-time monitoring systems, and smart storage solutions
- Regulatory compliance: Evolving global standards for pharmaceutical air transport
- Digital transformation: Blockchain, IoT, and AI applications for enhanced supply chain visibility
- Sustainable solutions: Eco-friendly packaging and carbon reduction strategies
2. Air Cargo Operations: Optimizing Efficiency
This operational track examines process improvements for cargo handling and transportation:
- Automation technologies for faster cargo processing
- Ground operation enhancements to reduce bottlenecks
- Risk management protocols for secure deliveries
- Workforce development strategies
3. Cargo Claims & Loss Prevention: Risk Mitigation
Legal and insurance specialists will address critical liability issues:
- Best practices in claims management
- Damage prevention techniques
- Insurance policy analysis
- Recent legal precedents in air freight disputes
4. Digital Cargo: Technological Transformation
The digital revolution's impact on air freight will be examined through:
- Implementation of ONE Record data standards
- Data-driven logistics optimization
- Emerging technologies like drone delivery systems
- Cybersecurity in digital cargo operations
Customized Participation
Attendees may tailor their conference agenda to focus on specific interest areas while benefiting from structured networking opportunities. The event facilitates professional connections through dedicated sessions, allowing participants to exchange operational knowledge and explore collaborative ventures.
Strategic Value for Industry Professionals
The CEC 2026 offers participants critical advantages in navigating the evolving air cargo landscape, including access to cutting-edge industry intelligence, professional skill development, and solutions for operational challenges. The gathering represents a pivotal opportunity for cargo specialists to collectively address sector-wide transformations.