air-cargo

FIATA Demands Review of IATA's Direct Air Waybill Framework Overhaul

The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations has escalated concerns about IATA's proposed changes to the Direct Air Waybill framework. FIATA is requesting a formal review before the July 1 implementation date. The organization warns the revisions create legal uncertainty and expose forwarders to expanded liability even when acting as shippers' agents rather than named parties on waybills. Australia's Freight & Trade Alliance flagged particular risks around Dangerous Goods shipments, noting liability could transfer to forwarders despite other supply chain parties controlling operations, documentation and declarations. FIATA conducted extensive global consultations with airlines, insurers, legal experts and shippers, identifying pathways toward balanced alternatives. The organization characterizes the adoption timeline—announced January, approved March, implemented July—as accelerated with insufficient industry input. FIATA seeks review through the IATA-FIATA Consultative Council mechanism to ensure legal coherence and operational viability while maintaining alignment between liability, control and insurable risk.