The Pallet – May 2026 Edition
Your Monthly Brief from the International Air Cargo Association of Chicago ✈️
✉️ From the President’s Desk
Dear Members,
The air cargo market is entering a period where preparation and execution are becoming increasingly critical differentiators across the industry.
While global demand remains relatively stable, the conversation has shifted noticeably over the past several months. Forwarders, carriers, and logistics providers are no longer simply reacting to disruption — they are actively positioning themselves ahead of anticipated second-half pressure through secured capacity strategies, long-term planning, and stronger operational alignment.
At the same time, the broader supply chain environment remains complex. Ocean reliability challenges, geopolitical uncertainty, and continued pressure on global infrastructure are all contributing to a market that rewards agility, communication, and strategic partnerships.
Chicago continues to play a central role within this landscape. As one of the world’s most important cargo gateways, O’Hare remains a critical hub supporting both international trade and domestic distribution throughout North America.
This month also served as a reminder of the incredible strength of our local logistics community. Our Still Celebrating Cinco De Mayo event brought together nearly 100 attendees for an evening filled with networking, collaboration, and industry connection. The energy and engagement throughout the event reflected the continued growth and momentum of IACAC, and we are grateful to everyone who joined us.
As we head into the summer months, we look forward to continuing to build meaningful opportunities for education, networking, and collaboration across our membership.
Warm regards,
Christina Aguirre
President, IACAC
📬 Newsletter compiled and edited by Victoria Rahmanovic, IACAC Communications Committee
🌟 Member Spotlight: Advanced Logistics Solutions (ALS)
This month, we are proud to spotlight Advanced Logistics Solutions (ALS), a global logistics provider focused on customized transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management solutions.
ALS supports clients through tailored international freight services and operational flexibility designed to meet the demands of increasingly dynamic supply chains. Their customer-focused approach and emphasis on responsive service continue to make them a valuable partner across a range of industries and trade lanes.
As global logistics networks continue evolving, companies like ALS demonstrate the growing importance of adaptability, visibility, and relationship-driven execution.
🛫 IACAC News & Announcements
📌 Welcome New Members – May 2026
Please join us in welcoming our newest members:
- Progressive Transportation Services — www.progressive-ord.com
• Rofolfo Gomez, ProShip Inc. — https://proshipinc.com/
• Chris Weber, Maersk — https://www.maersk.com/
• Brett Ullrich, Emo Trans — https://www.emotrans-global.com/
We look forward to their contributions to the IACAC community and connecting at future events.
📢 Industry News & Market Updates – May 2026
✈️ Air Cargo Demand Continues Upward Momentum Into Q2
🔗 https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2026-releases/2026-05-06-01/
IATA reported continued year-over-year growth in global air cargo demand entering Q2, supported by e-commerce activity, resilient consumer demand, and modal shift from ocean freight.
🌏 Red Sea Disruptions Continue to Influence Modal Shift
🔗 https://www.joc.com/article/red-sea-disruptions-continue-to-support-airfreight-demand-2026
Ongoing vessel rerouting and transit uncertainty through the Red Sea region continue driving select high-value and time-sensitive shipments into airfreight channels.
📦 Forwarders Increase Focus on Secured Capacity Ahead of Peak Season
🔗 https://www.freightwaves.com/news/forwarders-ramp-up-capacity-strategies-ahead-of-peak-2026
Forwarders are increasingly locking in carrier agreements earlier in the year as concerns around peak season availability and pricing continue to build.
📊 E-Commerce Remains a Primary Driver of Air Cargo Growth
🔗 https://www.aircargoweek.com/e-commerce-continues-to-drive-global-air-cargo-growth/
Global e-commerce demand continues influencing network expansion, aircraft utilization, and carrier investment strategies across international air cargo markets.
🚢 Ocean Schedule Reliability Remains Below Historical Norms
🔗 https://www.seatrade-maritime.com/containers/ocean-schedule-reliability-remains-under-pressure-2026
Continued schedule inconsistency across ocean networks is contributing to additional demand pressure on airfreight solutions for time-sensitive cargo.
🚀 Hot Topics — Strategic Watchpoints
- Peak season planning accelerating earlier than prior years
• Increased competition for secured contract capacity
• Continued modal shift from ocean to air for critical cargo
• E-commerce demand continuing to influence network priorities
📆 2026 IACAC Event Calendar
✔ Jan 30 — New Year Networking & Karaoke
✔ Feb 17 — PuttShack
✔ Mar 12 — Patty’s Day at Pop’s
✔ Apr 13 — Behind the Scenes at Lufthansa Cargo – Members Only
✔ May 7 — Still Celebrating Cinco De Mayo
✔ June 25 — 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 3 — Holiday Luncheon
🎉 Culture & Community
📸 Photo of the Month
Highlights from our Still Celebrating Cinco De Mayo event on May 7th, which welcomed nearly 100 attendees from across Chicago’s logistics and air cargo community. The evening delivered outstanding networking, strong industry engagement, and a fantastic atmosphere that reflected the continued growth and energy of IACAC.
💡 Did You Know?
Air cargo currently transports more than 35% of global trade value, despite representing less than 1% of world trade volume by tonnage.
🏆 IACAC Event Winners – Free Membership Giveaway
🎉 2026 Winners So Far
🏅 January — Carlos Delfin
🏅 February — Mathew Gudgeon
🏅 March — Alex Espinosa – Best Dressed (Patty’s Day)
🏅 April — No Drawing
🏅 May — To Be Announced
Join us at our next event for your chance to win!
📣 Stay Connected
📧 info@iacac.com
🌐 iacac.com
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🚀 Together, we move the world.
