Air cargo was a standout performer in 2024, growing 11.3 percent —outpacing passenger demand. E-commerce expansion and disruptions in sea shipping kept demand high, with yields 39 percent above 2019 levels. Looking ahead, 2025 is set for another 5.8 percent growth, but challenges loom: geopolitical uncertainty, inflation, and potential US policy shifts, including new tariffs. These pressing issues will take centre stage at the IATA World Cargo Symposium (WCS) 2025 in Dubai from the 15-17th April. Industry leaders will explore how air cargo can navigate an increasingly complex global trade environment. The symposium will feature plenary sessions, specialized tracks, workshops, and executive summits, addressing:

· Digitalisation: The role of AI and automation in the future of air cargo.

· Sustainability: Strategies for decarbonization, reducing single-use plastics and ESG reporting.

· Risk and resilience: Navigating geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory shifts, and supply chain disruptions.

Digitalisation: The future of air cargo

The strength of e-commerce will represent a growing portion of air cargo business. Currently, e-commerce averages about 20 percent of cargo business industry-wide, but it is expected to grow to at least a third of all cargo shipments. Given that, by 2027, e-commerce is expected to be an $8 trillion market segment, the sector stands to reap a significant reward if it can get its product correct.

The Digitalisation Stream at WCS will explore how digital solutions are adapting to meet this demand and reshape the industry. Executives will open discussions with keynotes on implementing digital strategies, followed by a fireside chat on IATA’s Digitalisation Leadership Charter, which was established to accelerate and sustain the industry’s digital transformation. As of December 2024, 17 organisations had signed on.

In addition, a panel will explore the challenges and opportunities as the industry moves towards its target for the adoption deadline for ONE Record by 1st January 2026—a major milestone in data standardisation. Spotlight sessions will highlight the power of data transparency, workflow optimization, and AI-driven innovations to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Sustainability: Building a greener air cargo industry

Digitalisation and sustainability go hand in hand. With half of all air cargo traveling on passenger aircraft, sustainability efforts will significantly impact the industry’s environmental goals. Reducing paper usage, optimizing cargo space, and minimizing single-use plastics are priorities. Circularity initiatives—such as recycling Unit Load Devices (ULDs) and increasing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)—are critical to reducing air cargo’s carbon footprint.

WCS 2025 will feature:

· A keynote on accelerating SAF adoption.

· A panel discussion on CO₂ reduction strategies.

· Sessions on mitigating supply chain sustainability risks, leveraging data and innovation, and promoting circularity in operations.

· A dedicated spotlight on sustainable pharmaceutical logistics, addressing trends, challenges, and best practices.

The day will conclude with real-world case studies, providing actionable insights into enhancing transparency in environmental reporting and social impacts.

Risk and resilience: Navigating global uncertainty

Geopolitical risks remain a wildcard for air cargo. Potential U.S. tariffs could create short-term spikes in demand—just as seen during the 2018–2019 U.S.-China trade war when businesses rushed to move goods before new duties took effect. Recent IATA data suggests a similar pattern, with December air cargo rates from Asia to the US rising 8 percent.

However, the long-term effects could be more disruptive. Higher costs may weaken demand, drive regional sourcing, or push volumes toward ocean freight. Stricter e-commerce regulations, including changes to de minimis exemptions, could further complicate cross-border trade.

At WCS 2025, industry experts will discuss strategies to enhance resilience—from adapting to shifting trade policies and regulatory environments to strengthening supply chain security in an evolving threat landscape.

Workshops

To support the industry’s goals, WCS will also feature workshops on key industry topics, including:

· Future Talent: Developing the next generation of air cargo leaders at the Future Air Cargo Executives Summit (FACES).

· Competency-Based Training: Enhancing workplace safety and performance through IATA’s CBTA Center.

· Market Performance: Optimizing key segments with IATA CEIV programs (Pharma, Live Animals, Lithium Batteries, Fresh).

· Cargo Solutions: Leveraging IATA tools for better decision-making, compliance, and efficiency.

· e-commerce Forum: Improving visibility between e-retailers and cargo operators to boost efficiency.

· ULD Forum: Exploring ULD design, AI applications, and sustainability data collection.

The road ahead: Collaboration is key

The future of air cargo depends on collaboration across the ecosystem—airlines, logistics providers, technology firms, regulators, and shippers. Dubai, with its world-class logistics infrastructure and strategic position at the crossroads of global trade, offers the ideal setting for these crucial discussions.

As IATA, Emirates SkyCargo and dnata welcome industry stakeholders to WCS 2025, the focus will be on driving innovation, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring air cargo remains a pillar of global trade.

WCS 2025 is more than just an industry event—it’s a call to action. The discussions in Dubai will shape the industry’s trajectory for years to come. The question is not whether air cargo needs can navigate the current environment, but how quickly it can adapt to new global realities.

The answer will define the future of air cargo.