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.
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 recognized 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, emphasized the strategic significance of hosting the event in Poland. He 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.
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.
The conference program featured two Executive Leadership Roundtables, discussions on industry transformation, sustainability, workforce development, digitalization, e-commerce, and regional growth opportunities and a deep dive into the Central European Region.
TIACA inducted Dr. Ajay Virmani, Founder and CEO of Cargojet, into the TIACA Hall of Fame, recognizing 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, recognizing her exceptional talent, leadership potential, and commitment to advancing the industry.
The Inspirational Leader Award, sponsored by Cargo Service Center (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." shared Glyn Hughes, TIACA Director General.
