Air Cargo

Fried Steps Down After More Than Two Decades Leading Air Cargo Security Efforts

Brandon Fried departed the Airforwarders Association on November 3 after more than two decades steering the industry group through its most consequential period. Fried joined the AfA in 2000, became chairperson in 2001 for two consecutive terms, and was named executive director in 2005. His tenure coincided with the post-9/11 security overhaul that reshaped air cargo operations. Fried became instrumental in shaping the regulatory framework, working extensively with Congress to ensure security measures would not stifle commerce. He positioned himself as a primary industry voice in discussions with the Transportation Security Administration. His advocacy prevented several counterproductive legislative proposals from advancing while helping draft emerging security protocols. Fried also monitored highway legislation affecting the sector, including new bond requirements.