The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) and Airports Council International (ACI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and benefit the industry and its members.

The primary objective of the MoU is to improve the overall level of safety, efficiency and sustainability of cargo operations within the airport ecosystem, which will benefit the aviation industry and its related stakeholders.

The MoU seeks to develop joint advocacy programmes in the context of ICAO events aimed at facilitating the sustainable growth and development of the aviation industry, with a focus on cargo; cooperation in the establishment of joint programmes or mutual support of industry initiatives, in particular in the domains of aviation workforce and social sustainability; and mutual support for and collaboration across actions and initiatives aiming to achieve the industry agreed goal of Net-zero 2050.

It also seeks participation in each other's working groups and committees as necessary to provide industry expertise and strategic orientation where appropriate; and collaborating on the establishment of relevant industry guidance material and technical recommendations on topics of use for the respective memberships.

The MoU between TIACA and ACI—the trade association of the world's airports—also aims to promote relevant activities, such as events or publications, to each other's membership or relevant governance bodies and share relevant documents, data and information as needed in the context of the Parties' work programmes.  

"TIACA's aim is to unite air cargo and by coming together with key organizations like ACI, is just one of the ways we are actively doing this. By coming together on key items, we are working together to support the industry in its sustainable growth and development while ensuring the most efficient and safe operation possible," said Steven Polmans, chair of TIACA.

Luis Felipe de Oliveira, director general and CEO of ACI World, noted that efficient and sustainable cargo operations at airports are crucial to the global economy and the well-being of communities worldwide.

"We are pleased to be strengthening cooperation with TIACA to improve the overall levels of safety, efficiency, and sustainability of cargo operations. Through joint advocacy, programs, and initiatives, our collective efforts will contribute to a more efficient aviation ecosystem for all," he said.

For his part, Glyn Hughes, director general of TIACA, said cooperation with organizations like ACI is essential to the mission of the association.

"It allows both bodies to better serve their members and the industry. We are excited to get to work and create strong synergies between the two organizations, particularly in the area of sustainability," he added.