The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) has officially released the programme for Air Cargo Forum (ACF) 2025, detailing a robust schedule of sessions, panels, and speakers for the premier global gathering of the air cargo sector. The event is set for 3–6 November 2025 at Yas Island Arena, Abu Dhabi, bringing together executives, innovators, and policymakers to explore solutions for a rapidly evolving logistics landscape.
Addressing Critical Industry Issues
ACF 2025 will cover a wide range of topics central to the global air cargo industry, including leadership, digital transformation, sustainability, workforce development, regional infrastructure growth, and emerging industry trends. The programme is designed to foster dialogue across all aspects of the supply chain, providing participants with actionable insights into operational, technological, and strategic challenges.
Programme Highlights
Fireside Chats
- Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer, Etihad Cargo, will share insights on the carrier’s strategic vision and Abu Dhabi’s evolving role as a logistics hub.
- Tom Bradley, Director and General Manager, Amazon Air Cargo, will discuss the company’s strategic initiatives and future priorities.
Industry Leaders Roundtables
- Senior executives including Martin Drew (Atlas Air), Dirk Gooevaerts (Swissport), Wilson Kwong (HACTL), Asok Kumar (Morrison Express), Sanjeev Gadhia (Astral Aviation), and Chris McDermott (CHAMP Cargosystems) will exchange perspectives on key industry challenges and opportunities.
Digitalisation in Air Cargo
- Vitaly Smilianets (Awery Aviation Software), Radhesh Menon (IBS Software), and Antonia Ambrozy (WebCargo by Freightos) will examine technology’s role in enhancing efficiency, resilience, and automation across the supply chain.
Middle East as a Global Gateway
- Panelists, including Nadia Abdul Aziz (NAFL), Hashim Alshrif (Saudi Cargo), and Steven Polmans (TIACA) will discuss regional infrastructure development and the Middle East’s growing influence in global logistics.
Workforce Challenges
- Roos Bakker (ICTS), Moaza Al Falahi (Emirates SkyCargo), and Roland Zistler (Aviation NOW), among others, will address talent acquisition, development, and retention in a competitive market.
Aviation Net Zero
- Emma Murray (Meantime Communications), Helene Goury (Air France KLM Cargo), and Noora Al Sharhan (Etihad Cargo) will explore pathways to achieving Net Zero operations by 2050.
Industry Innovation
- Amar More (Kale Logistics Solutions) and Jessica Panigari (Goods2Load), alongside other panelists to be announced, will examine the adoption of AI, automation, robotics, and other technology-driven tools in air cargo.
Industry Trends and Outlook
- Ryan Keyrouse (Rotate) and Marco Bloeman (Aevean) will provide insights into future industry trajectories.
E-commerce
- Panelists Sanele Simmons (Mall for Women) and Ed Burek (SmartKargo) will explore evolving expectations from shippers and how air cargo partners can meet growing e-commerce demands.
Expanding Opportunities
TIACA notes that the ACF 2025 programme will continue to grow, with additional speakers and sessions to be announced. Attendees can expect a dynamic agenda that reflects current developments and encourages meaningful dialogue across the air cargo ecosystem.
“This year’s programme reflects the breadth and depth of issues shaping our industry. From digital innovation to workforce development, ACF 2025 will bring the right people into the right conversations at the right time,” said Steven Polmans, TIACA Chair.
Abu Dhabi: A Strategic Air Cargo Hub
The Middle East air cargo market continues to expand, driven by strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and innovation. Abu Dhabi serves as a key hub linking Asia, Europe, and Africa, fostering a logistics ecosystem defined by efficiency, connectivity, and sustainability.
“Bringing the Forum to the Middle East offers a unique opportunity to connect global leaders with one of the fastest-growing air cargo ecosystems. We look forward to discussions that will shape the industry’s future,” said Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General.
Signature Experiences
The event will feature several exclusive networking opportunities:
- Conference Sessions – Limited seating for in-depth engagement with industry leaders
- Golf Tournament at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
- Welcome Reception at Del Mar Beach Club
- Connecting Cargo Reception at Ferrari World
Exhibition and sponsorship opportunities are now open, with premium positions available in high-traffic areas for companies seeking maximum visibility during the event.
For registration and further details, visit aircargoforum.org.
