The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) successfully concluded its Executive Summit 2026, held in Warsaw, Poland from June 1-3, bringing together more than 320 senior executives, thought leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from across the global air cargo supply chain.
Hosted by LOT Polish Airlines and Port Polska, the three-day event delivered a dynamic program focused on leadership, market intelligence, sustainability, innovation, and the future direction of the industry. Participants engaged in high-level discussions, networking opportunities, and recognition of outstanding achievements that continue to shape the future of air cargo.
The Executive Summit also provided exceptional opportunities for industry networking, with strong participation throughout the Welcome Reception, networking dinner, and other hosted functions, reinforcing TIACA’s commitment to creating meaningful connections across the air cargo community.
A highlight of this year’s event was the introduction of several new program features that received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees. These included the inaugural keynote address delivered by internationally recognised speaker and former CNN news anchor Olivia Kinghorst, who challenged delegates to embrace change, lead with confidence, and prepare for the future with purpose.
Opening the Executive Summit, Dr. Filip Czernicki, CEO of Centralny Port Komunikacyjny, Port Polska Programme, emphasised the strategic significance of hosting the event in Poland.
“For the first time, Poland is hosting one of the most important global gatherings of the air cargo industry. This is not only an honour – it is a clear confirmation of Poland’s growing role in the international logistics system and our ambition to actively co-create the future of the cargo market,” said Dr. Filip Czernicki – “Warsaw today becomes a place of key international debate on the future of air cargo. Central and Eastern Europe is gaining strategic importance, and our region needs its own strong cargo hub.”
During his keynote remarks, Dr. Czernicki presented the vision behind the Port Polska programme and Cargo City – a planned integrated logistics and industrial ecosystem combining cargo infrastructure, a special economic zone and a Free Customs Area.
“At the heart of this vision is Cargo City – a unique logistics and industrial ecosystem designed as a platform for global airlines, integrators and logistics operators, enabling the integration of logistics and production” – he said – “Our ambition is to create one of the most advanced and digital cargo hubs in Europe – responding to the needs of e-commerce, specialised transport and modern industry, while advancing sustainability and operational efficiency.”
Additional new additions to the program included a Fireside Chat with Michał Grochowski, Cargo and Mail Director at LOT Cargo, celebrating LOT Cargo’s 30-year journey of innovation and customer-focused growth. Attendees also welcomed the interactive Open Session featuring industry veteran Jan Krems, which explored Jan’s life beyond air cargo.
Adding an element of fun and friendly competition, the inaugural Air Cargo Mastermind Challenge brought delegates together to test their industry knowledge while fostering networking and engagement in a unique format.
The conference program featured two Executive Leadership Roundtables, discussions on industry transformation, sustainability, workforce development, digitalisation, e-commerce, and regional growth opportunities and a deep dive into the Central European Region. Attendees also benefited from four dedicated Market Intelligence sessions delivered by leading industry analysts, providing valuable insights into current market conditions and future trends.
Recognising excellence across the industry remained a cornerstone of the Executive Summit.
TIACA inducted Dr. Ajay Virmani, Founder and CEO of Cargojet, into the TIACA Hall of Fame, recognising his extraordinary contributions to the development of the global air cargo industry.
The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HACTL, was presented to Anna Balan, CargoBooking, recognising her exceptional talent, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing the industry.
The Inspirational Leader Award, sponsored by Cargo Service Centre (CSC) India, was awarded to Janet Wallace, Air Canada Cargo, in recognition of her outstanding leadership and positive impact on colleagues, customers, and the wider air cargo community.
Sustainability remained a key focus throughout the event, culminating in the presentation of the TIACA Sustainability Awards, sponsored by CHAMP Cargosystems. HACTL was named the Corporate Category Winner, while BioNatur Plastics captured the Start-up/Small Business Category title for its innovative and sustainable solutions.
“The Executive Summit demonstrated the tremendous energy, resilience, and collaborative spirit that exists throughout our industry. Bringing together more than 320 professionals from across the global air cargo ecosystem created an environment where meaningful conversations, new ideas, and lasting partnerships could flourish. I am proud of what we achieved together in Warsaw and grateful to all participants, sponsors, speakers, and hosts who made this event such a success,” stated Roos Bakker, TIACA Chair.
“The Executive Summit in Warsaw was a fantastic opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with global industry leaders during a pivotal time for air cargo. It was also a great occasion to put the spotlight on Central Eastern Europe—a region that has too often remained underrepresented despite its growing importance and immense potential. Proud to see CEE gaining the recognition it deserves,” stated Michał Grochowski, Cargo and Mail Director at LOT Polish Airlines.
“The Executive Summit continues to evolve to meet the needs of our industry. This year’s introduction of new program elements, combined with strong thought leadership, market intelligence, and networking opportunities, created an exceptional experience for delegates. The engagement we witnessed throughout the event demonstrates the importance of bringing our industry together to share perspectives, challenge thinking, and shape the future of air cargo. The speaker lineup featured a strong gender balance with a high percentage of younger voices being heard. We thank our hosts LOT Polish Airlines and Port Polska, our sponsors, speakers, and attendees for helping make Warsaw one of our most successful Executive Summits to date.” shared Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General.
TIACA now turns its attention toward the ACF 2026 in Miami, October 26-29.
