E-commerce drives new agenda for air cargo
The International Air Cargo Association (Tiaca) has issued its first white paper dedicated to e-commerce, which already accounts for about 20% of global air cargo volumes and could double within a decade. Produced by the organisation's multi-sector task force, the 16-chapter study (82 pages) highlights both opportunities and challenges ranging from safety and customs management to data harmonisation, sustainability, and innovation.
Chair Steven Polmans called e-commerce "a paradigm shift" requiring new policies and collaboration. Co-chair Nikolai Schaffner and director general Glyn Hughes underlined the need for digitalisation, greener operations, and cross-sector partnerships. The paper aims to provide a roadmap for airlines, airports, handlers, and forwarders adapting to smaller, high-frequency shipments while ensuring efficiency and security. TIACA invites industry feedback on the study, available via its website. (ah)