From the President’s Desk

Dear Members,
As we move further into 2026, the air cargo industry continues to navigate a landscape shaped by evolving global trade patterns, shifting capacity, and growing demand for speed and visibility across supply chains. Forwarders, carriers, and logistics partners alike are adapting quickly to ensure reliability in an increasingly dynamic environment.

Chicago remains at the center of these developments. With O’Hare International Airport now recognized as the busiest airport in the country, expanded airline schedules and strengthened connectivity continue to reinforce our region’s position as a critical hub for both passenger travel and global cargo movement.
As the industry evolves, the value of strong professional networks becomes even more apparent. IACAC remains committed to bringing our community together through meaningful programming, educational opportunities, and networking events throughout the year.

We look forward to seeing many of you soon at Patty’s Day at Pop’s, where we can celebrate the season and strengthen the connections that keep our industry moving forward.

Warm regards,
Christina Aguirre
President, IACAC

📬 Newsletter compiled and edited by Victoria Rahmanovic, IACAC Communications Committee

Member Spotlight: EliteXpo

This month we are proud to spotlight EliteXpo, a logistics provider delivering innovative freight forwarding and supply chain solutions across global markets. Known for their responsiveness, operational precision, and customer-focused approach, EliteXpo supports clients navigating complex international logistics environments.

Their commitment to reliability and strategic execution reflects the collaborative spirit and professionalism that define the IACAC community.

 

IACAC News & Announcements

Welcome New Members – February 2026

Please join us in welcoming the newest members of the IACAC community:

• ATC Aviation USA — https://www.atc-aviation.com/
• FreightFit AI — https://freightfit.ai/
• Caliber Talent Solutions — https://www.caliber-inc.com
• Annie Encinas, Yusen Logistics — https://www.yusen-logistics.com/
• Robert Suba, Qualified Cargo Solutions — https://www.qualifiedcargosolutions.com/
• Laura Candella, TForce Freight — https://www.tforcefreight.com
• Matthew Gudgeon, Weida Freight Systems Inc— https://www.weidafreight.com/

We look forward to connecting with our newest members at upcoming IACAC events.

 

Industry News & Market Updates – February 2026

O’Hare Named Busiest Airport in the Country

Chicago O’Hare has recently been recognized as the busiest airport in the United States, driven by expanded airline schedules and continued network growth from major carriers. The increased connectivity strengthens Chicago’s position as a key global hub for both passenger and cargo flows.

Click Herehttps://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/air-cargo-market-analysis/

 

Global Air Cargo Demand Remains Resilient

Air cargo demand closed 2025 at record levels and has remained steady into early 2026. Industry analysts note continued strong performance in technology shipments, e-commerce cargo, and time-sensitive freight across major trade lanes.

Click Herehttps://www.iata.org/en/iata-repository/publications/economic-reports/air-cargo-market-analysis/

 

Asia–North America Trade Lanes Remain Active

Cargo flows between Asia and North America continue to demonstrate strong resilience despite periodic capacity tightening and shifting trade patterns.

Click herehttps://www.aircargonews.net/

 

Capacity and Rate Adjustments Continue

Forwarders are reporting stabilized spot market rates following peak season, while contract negotiations for Q2 and Q3 capacity continue across major global lanes.

Click here: https://www.chrobinson.com/en-us/resources/insights-and-advisories/

 

Hot Topics — Strategic Watchpoints

• Capacity Planning for Summer Schedules
Airline summer schedules are expanding across several global hubs, influencing cargo space allocation and planning.

• Trade Policy & Tariff Developments
Global trade policy shifts continue to influence routing decisions and landed cost considerations for shippers.

• Technology & Data in Logistics
Digital platforms and AI-driven visibility tools are increasingly shaping competitive differentiation in freight forwarding.

• Infrastructure & Intermodal Pressures
Regional drayage and rail capacity continue to play a role in multimodal cargo planning across North America.

Patty’s Day at Pop’s — March 13th

Join us for one of IACAC’s favorite networking events of the year!
📍 Pop’s Pizza & Sports Bar
817 E Nerge Rd
Roselle, IL 60172

🗓 Thursday, March 13, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Enjoy an evening of relaxed networking with colleagues from across Chicago’s air cargo community. Your ticket includes appetizers, drink tickets, and entry into event raffles. Don’t forget to wear your best St. Patrick’s attire!

https://iacac.com/event/pattys-day-at-pops/

2026 IACAC Event Calendar

✔ Jan 30 — New Year Networking & Karaoke

✔ Feb 17 — PuttShack

✔ Mar 13 — Patty’s Day at Pop’s

✔ Apr — Behind the Scenes at Lufthansa Cargo – MEMBERS ONLY

✔ May 7— Cinco de Mayo Celebration

✔ June — Date TBD — Chicago Dogs Game

✔ July — TBD

✔ Aug 13 — Annual Golf Outing

✔ Sep 24 — Oktoberfest

✔ Oct 15 — Air Cargo Night

✔ Nov — Date TBD — Compliance Day & Elections

✔ Dec — TBD — Holiday Luncheon

 

Culture & Community

📸 Photo of the Month
Highlights from last month’s PuttShack networking event, where IACAC members gathered for a fun evening of mini golf, networking, and industry camaraderie. Events like these continue to strengthen the connections that make the Chicago air cargo community so unique.

Did You Know?

Chicago O’Hare handles millions of tons of cargo annually and remains one of North America’s most critical logistics gateways for transatlantic and transpacific freight.

 

IACAC Event Winners – Free Membership Giveaway

Each month, we raffle off a free individual membership (or $50 toward a corporate membership) to attendees at our events.

🎉 2026 Winners So Far
🏅 January – Carlos Delfin
🏅 February – Mathew Gudgeon

Join us at Patty’s Day at Pop’s on March 13th for your chance to be our next winner!

 

 

IACAC Event Winners – Free Membership Giveaway

Each month, we raffle off a free individual membership (or $50 toward a corporate membership) to attendees at our events.

🎉 2026 Winners So Far
🏅 January – Carlos Delfin
🏅 February – Mathew Gudgeon

Join us at Patty’s Day at Pop’s on March 13th for your chance to be our next winner!

 

 

Stay Connected
📧 info@iacac.com
🌐 iacac.com
📲 Follow Us:
LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
🚀 Thank you for being part of Chicago’s vibrant air cargo community — together, we move the world.

 

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