From workforce challenges to sustainability and the significance of innovation, every pertinent topic was discussed at TIACA’s Air Cargo Forum 2025. The global highly anticipated event is currently underway at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
On ground as Media Partners, Global Supply Chain is happy to offer a glimpse at the proceedings. One of the most anticipated sessions was made by TIACA’s senior leadership team. After six years steering the International Air Cargo Association TIACA through transformation and turbulence, Steven Polmans closed his final forum as Chair with an honest discussion and a reminder that leadership in air cargo is always a team sport.
“We have the best team in the world,” Polmans said. “The board has been an amazing supporter and driver for TIACA. We rebuilt governance so that every region and every vertical has a voice, and since then we’ve never struggled for engagement – only for time, because the discussions have become richer and more demanding.”
Homegrown autonomous innovation
On the sidelines another event took place. Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is continuously redefining traditional air freight while supporting the airline’s overall business growth ambitions. The carrier signed an agreement with LODD Autonomous, a leader in advanced air mobility and autonomous logistics, to explore the integration of next-generation ‘Hili’ hybrid VTOL aircraft into UAE operations.
This collaboration will complement conventional fleets with agile, short-range capacity that enhances operational resilience and service speed while ensuring lower emissions and more sustainable logistics.
With a payload capacity of 250 kilograms and a range of more than 700 kilometres, the ‘Hili’ aircraft offers the ideal balance between capacity and agility, being capable of transporting high-value shipments across a wide range of terrains and conditions.
The new partnership will centre on experimental operations to test the efficiency, safety, and ground logistics compatibility of LODD Autonomous’ flagship drone for point-to-point UAE-wide transfers. The impact on logistics could be significant, as ‘Hili’ removes the need for runways and traditional airport infrastructure, cutting delivery times by hours or even days.
As part of the trial, Etihad Cargo will also explore the operational and commercial potential of integrating ‘Hili’ aircraft into its future fleet.
Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “As a fellow Abu Dhabi-based company, LODD Services shares Etihad Cargo’s ambition to transform the future of air mobility. We’re continuously looking for new ways to enhance connectivity within the UAE, empowering both the people and businesses behind every shipment. Together with LODD Autonomous, we hope to open up new possibilities for air cargo, creating smarter, faster, and more sustainable ways to move goods across the country.”
Based in Abu Dhabi, LODD Autonomous is transforming civilian logistics through automation, autonomous vehicles, and AI-driven software. Simplifying operations, reducing costs, and minimising emissions, its automated solutions serve industries spanning e-commerce, freight forwarding, healthcare, and beyond. LODD Autonomous’ focus on reliable, efficient transport seamlessly aligns with Etihad Cargo’s role as a local connector, ensuring every shipment is handled with purpose and precision.
With plenty of avenues for networking and many panels to attend, the event is a great opportunity for people from the industry to be on the same platform. ACF 2025 ends on 6th November 2025.
