Air, Freight News

IATA vows to drag air cargo into 21st Century

[ June 6, 2017   //   Chris ]

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) adopted a resolution to accelerate cargo modernization and transformation at its annual general meeting in Cancun on 5 June. It aims to build on the momentum created by the entry into force of the World Trade Organization’s recently-ratified Trade Facilitation Agreement.

IATA’s director general and chief executive Alexandre de Juniac, said: “Air cargo processes are stuck in another century. To ensure that air cargo is ready to benefit from the expected $1 trillion boost in trade growth arising from the TFA and the improving global economic environment, we need a major overhaul of industry processes. And there is no time to lose; our customers already expect the efficiency of electronic documentation

The resolution calls for digitisation of the supply chain, modern and harmonised standards enhanced technology to provide customers with responsive services and harnessing the power of data to drive efficient and effective industry quality improvements.

IATA for its part will facilitate and support the process through its industry transformation program, Simplifying the Business (StB) Cargo which, it says, is taking the lead in bringing several initiatives for data-led innovation forward. The program also includes a Smart Facilities initiative designed to enhance ground handling service quality.

 

Tags: IATA