IATA highlights the vital role of air cargo in global connectivity and resilience

Sullivan also detailed the growing influence of the CEIV program, which aims to standardize and improve air cargo handling. "Over 600 companies across 65 countries are CEIV Pharma-certified... this is the future of air cargo standards," he stated.

Shifting to digitalization, Sullivan described a scenario where integrated digital systems rerouted a crucial pharmaceutical shipment, ensuring timely delivery. "That’s the power of digitalization in the future. If safety is our foundation, digitalization is our accelerator."

He advocated for the adoption of ONE Record, intended to streamline data exchange. "The industry’s goal is clear: by January 2026, ONE Record will become the preferred method of sharing data," Sullivan announced.

Addressing sustainability, Sullivan illustrated the journey of a Hokkaido scallop reaching Dubai using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), emphasizing environmental efforts. He noted, "The air cargo industry is embracing sustainability principles, in-flight and on the ground."

Despite challenges, the industry remains committed to reducing carbon emissions. "We're also taking action to address our biggest environmental cost: carbon emissions," Sullivan mentioned, referencing SAF agreements and investments.

However, he voiced concerns about the pace of progress: "Without belittling these efforts, they are, frankly, nowhere near the volumes that we need to be speaking about." Sullivan urged regulators and fuel suppliers to enhance support for SAF development.

Concluding his speech, Sullivan encouraged the industry to continue sharing success stories and writing the future of air cargo collectively. "In a world that is anything but predictable, air cargo continues to deliver."