Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

Stbs New Rules Aim to Ease Rail Freight Rate Disputes

The US Surface Transportation Board (STB) has introduced two new rules to streamline railway freight rate dispute resolution, including a voluntary arbitration program and Final Offer Rate Review (FORR). However, the Association of American Railroads (AAR) strongly opposes these rules, citing “fatal flaws” in FORR and arguing the arbitration rules are “backwards.” Whether these new regulations will bring relief to shippers remains challenging, and shippers need to carefully assess the implications. The future impact of these regulations is uncertain amidst ongoing debate and potential legal challenges.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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IATA Proposes Streamlined Tourist Fee System for Dominican Republic

IATA Proposes Streamlined Tourist Fee System for Dominican Republic

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is working to streamline the Dominican Republic's tourist card fee collection mechanism, addressing the current system's failure to effectively exempt certain travelers. IATA proposes eliminating the collection of fees via airline tickets and transitioning to an online portal. They urge the Dominican Republic government to take the lead in resolving the issue. IATA emphasizes its continued support for the Dominican Republic's tourism industry and hopes to collaborate with the government to create a more convenient travel experience for passengers.

01/16/2026 Airlines
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Dominican Republic and IATA Clash Over Tourism Fee Collection

Dominican Republic and IATA Clash Over Tourism Fee Collection

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urges the Dominican Republic government to reassess its tourist card fee policy. The current system's inability to differentiate passenger nationality and residency hinders airlines from implementing exemptions. IATA proposes an online portal system, allowing travelers to prepay and clarify exemption eligibility. This would streamline the process, enhance efficiency, and ultimately promote tourism. The existing system creates confusion and operational difficulties for airlines trying to comply with the exemption rules. A modernized approach is needed for a smoother and fairer travel experience.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Global SAF Registry Launched to Accelerate Aviation Decarbonization

Global SAF Registry Launched to Accelerate Aviation Decarbonization

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has established the Civil Aviation Decarbonization Organization (CADO) to manage a global Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) registry system. This initiative aims to create a transparent and efficient SAF market by connecting supply and demand, tracking environmental benefits, reducing costs, and accelerating SAF adoption. CADO membership is open to all stakeholders, encouraging broad participation to collectively advance the aviation industry's sustainable development. The registry will be crucial for ensuring the credibility and scalability of SAF usage within the sector.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Guatemalas Cargo Airport Plan Draws IATA Warning

Guatemalas Cargo Airport Plan Draws IATA Warning

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urges the Guatemalan government to reconsider its plan to build a new cargo airport. IATA suggests prioritizing the upgrade of existing airports and collaborating with the aviation industry to develop a more strategic development plan. IATA believes a new airport could increase costs and reduce efficiency. Upgrading existing facilities would be more beneficial for the sustainable development of Guatemala's aviation industry. They emphasize the importance of a collaborative approach to ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of the sector.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

US Rail Freight Rebounds Amid Mixed Growth Trends

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows US rail freight and intermodal volume increased year-over-year in March, partially due to a low base in the same period last year. Performance varied across segments, with intermodal showing strong growth. Looking ahead, challenges include the pandemic, supply chain bottlenecks, and industry restructuring. Opportunities arise from infrastructure investment, intermodal development, and technological innovation. Railroad companies need to respond proactively, and shippers should optimize their logistics strategies. The future of rail freight is intertwined with these evolving dynamics.

01/19/2026 Logistics
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AI and Tariffs Reshape Global Supply Chains Through 2026

AI and Tariffs Reshape Global Supply Chains Through 2026

The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) released its 'Top 10 Trends for 2026' report, revealing that AI, trade dynamics, workforce evolution, resilience, and sustainability will reshape global supply chains. Businesses need to pay attention to these trends to build intelligent, resilient, and sustainable supply chains to meet future challenges. The report highlights the importance of adapting to changing trade landscapes and leveraging technology like AI to improve efficiency and visibility. Furthermore, building robust and flexible supply chains is crucial for navigating disruptions and ensuring long-term success.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Dockworkers Maritime Alliance Agree on Sixyear Labor Deal

US Dockworkers Maritime Alliance Agree on Sixyear Labor Deal

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative six-year agreement, aiming to ensure labor stability at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. A key focus is balancing automation advancement with workers' rights, averting potential strike disruptions. The agreement's ratification and implementation will significantly impact the supply chain. Continued collaboration between the ILA and USMX is crucial for achieving mutual benefits and fostering a stable and efficient port environment. This agreement is a significant step towards ensuring supply chain resilience.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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US East Coast Gulf Ports Brace for Possible ILA Strike

US East Coast Gulf Ports Brace for Possible ILA Strike

Ports along the US East Coast and Gulf Coast are actively preparing for a potential strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA). Ports are implementing measures to minimize potential operational disruptions, including extending operating hours, adjusting cargo receiving strategies, and offering fee waivers. Key ports like the Port of New York and New Jersey, the Port of Savannah, and the Port of Houston have announced specific contingency plans to ensure smooth cargo movement. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of the potential labor action on the supply chain.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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IATA Introduces Safety Tool to Boost Airline Performance

IATA Introduces Safety Tool to Boost Airline Performance

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the I-ASC Aviation Safety Culture Survey Tool to help airlines assess, benchmark, and improve their safety culture. The tool evaluates nine key drivers, providing quantitative and qualitative data to support the development of improvement plans. It offers industry benchmarking, risk identification, global coverage, and continuous improvement tracking capabilities. This helps airlines enhance their safety performance by providing actionable insights and facilitating a proactive approach to safety management. Ultimately, the I-ASC tool aims to foster a stronger safety culture within the aviation industry.

01/05/2026 Airlines
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