Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 2026 IATA Cargo Experts Conference (CEC) will focus on practical ways to improve day-to-day air cargo operations through global standards, technology, and data. The conference will take place in Budapest, Hungary, on 23–24 September 2026.
"CEC brings cargo experts together to share what works, tackle common challenges, and take away tangible ideas they can apply in their own organizations. The focus is on operations. For a business whose customers literally depend on reliable delivery each and every day, effective operations are essential to success," said Brendan Sullivan, IATA's Global Head of Cargo.
Under the theme "From Expertise to Execution", the conference will feature three specialized tracks:
- Digital Cargo: Advancing ONE Record adoption and putting digital technologies into practice, including APIs, AI and automation, with a focus on cargo security, visibility, data quality, and interoperability.
- Safety & Security: Addressing emerging security risks, including the safe handling of dangerous goods and the proliferation of undeclared lithium batteries, while strengthening risk assessment and oversight.
- Pharma & Cargo Operations: Strengthening ground handling, resilience, and cold-chain operations with smarter compliance and real-time data supporting pharmaceutical shipments.
CEC is open to accredited members of the press. View the CEC program (pdf).
