air-cargo

Air Cargo Sector Grapples With Staffing, Capacity and Security Threats

Three major headwinds threaten the air cargo industry's growth trajectory, according to executives gathered at Air Cargo China in Shanghai this week.

Cyber security risks pose an underestimated danger, warned Joanna Li, executive director of commercial and business development at Hong Kong handler Hactl. She noted that the rise of Artificial Intelligence is raising the threat level, as AI can imitate people's behavior. Interconnected air cargo systems create cascading vulnerabilities, where attacks on smaller operators can ripple across the entire supply chain.

Freighter capacity shortages present another critical challenge. Etihad's chief cargo officer Stanislas Brun highlighted that demand will outpace aircraft supply, as only the Airbus A350 enters production next year while Boeing's 777 and 767 freighter programs wind down. Airlines retaining passenger 777s due to supply chain delays further constrains conversion feedstock.

Staffing shortages at ground handlers and service providers compound these pressures. MSC Air Cargo's chief executive Jannie Davel emphasized recruitment and retention difficulties, noting the industry's regulatory complexity demands experienced personnel.