In the next few years, changes in the world of airfreight – in the form of e-commerce, staff turnover, competition and belly capacity – may be coming faster than shippers, forwarders, carriers and airports are prepared for, said speakers at yesterday’s AirCargo 2015 conference session, “Regulatory and Policy Issues for Air Cargo Development.”
Stan Wraight, the executive director of strategic aviation solutions international for TIACA, said during the discussion that he is deeply disappointed and concerned about the lack of interest current supply chain professionals are showing for training the next generation.
One of the most important innovations for which we are largely unprepared is e-commerce business, most of which is going to the integrators, Wraight said. In some places, such as Shanghai, e-commerce facilities are located on airport turf, with a scheduled airline in the mix. Dubai might follow, he added.
“Get involved – please, please, please join in the debate; the effect of e-commerce will affect your operation,” Wraight implored the audience.
IATA’s objective to reduce the shipping process by 48 hours was too little, too late Wraight said. “The six-and-one-half-day process that IATA wants to change is more like eight and one-half days.”