IATA Cargo Experts Conference: Turning Expertise into Improved Air Cargo Operations

The 2026 IATA Cargo Experts Conference (CEC) in Budapest (23–24 September) is shaping up to be a very operations-focused event.

Theme & Purpose
- Theme: “From Expertise to Execution”
- Goal: Practical solutions for day-to-day air cargo operations through global standards, technology, and data.
- Brendan Sullivan (IATA Global Head of Cargo) emphasized that reliable operations are critical since customers depend on daily delivery.

Specialized Tracks
1. Digital Cargo
- Advancing ONE Record adoption.
- Applying APIs, AI, and automation.
- Focus on cargo security, visibility, data quality, and interoperability.

2. Safety & Security
- Tackling emerging risks.
- Safe handling of dangerous goods.
- Addressing undeclared lithium batteries.
- Strengthening risk assessment and oversight.

3. Pharma & Cargo Operations
- Improving ground handling and cold-chain resilience.
- Smarter compliance with real-time data.
- Supporting pharmaceutical shipments.

Why It Matters
- Air cargo is under pressure to balance efficiency, safety, and digital transformation.
- The conference is designed to give participants tangible takeaways they can implement immediately in their organizations.

This event is particularly relevant for logistics professionals, airlines, and shippers who want to stay ahead in digitalization, safety compliance, and pharma logistics.