GA:   Looking back, the arrangements for the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines represented one of the largest logistics operations ever. From an economic point of view, did the operation stand on its feet, or was the benefit mainly from an image point of view?
JK:   It was both. The vaccine operation was one of the proudest moments in our company’s history. Economically, it helped stabilize our network at a critical time when global supply chains were under pressure. But the real value went beyond revenue; it was about proving what United, and the entire air cargo industry can accomplish when the world needs us most. It showcased our people, our expertise, and the essential role of air cargo in global health and resilience.

GA:   Reading the mood of global air cargo customers, what do you think will happen next?
JK:   Customers are optimistic but cautious. The market is stabilizing, and the focus is shifting from capacity to quality, speed, reliability, and digital connectivity. We’re seeing growing demand in healthcare and e-commerce in the Americas. Those trends play to our strengths. Our strategy is to keep investing in digital tools, partnerships, and people to deliver a consistent, trusted experience wherever customers ship.

GA:   Based on your experience with shippers, forwarders, and airlines, what can these groups do to improve the industry?
JK:   Collaboration is key. We all share the same customers at the end of the day. If we align standards, data sharing, and sustainability goals, we can simplify global trade for everyone. That’s why United Cargo supports industry initiatives around digitalization and sustainability. The more transparent and connected we become as an industry, the stronger and more efficient we’ll be.

GA:   Given two minutes with every delegate face-to-face at TIACA Abu Dhabi or Air Cargo Americas Miami, what would you want them to know about United Cargo and how teaming up with your service can make their shipping by air better?
JK:   We connect more places in the world than almost any other carrier, and we’re doing it with a focus on reliability, transparency, and innovation. We’re investing in digital platforms that make it simple to do business, expanding our global network, and strengthening the partnerships that drive our success.      We’re not just moving goods, we’re moving possibilities for our customers every day.

GA:   Do you still think cargo is sexy after all these years?
JK:   Cargo is sexy because the work involved is globally vital, dynamic, and impactful. And you meet so many different cultures/people in the world. Never a dull moment.
Geoffrey Arend

     The phrase “see what the bears in the back room will have” describing the need for satisfying the wishes and demands of “the old boy network” , which used to run nearly everything in business just got a 21st century wake-up call in Abu Dhabi of all places, as the smart, engaged, very enlightened and determined dynamic female born in Holland named Roos Bakker steps up as Chair Lady at The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA), a first for an air cargo industry organization.
     Dora Kay of Hong Kong International served as TIACA President from 2003-2004.
     This week in Abu Dhabi is an indication that TIACA founded just 30 years ago from what was left of IACA, is once again moving toward its great potential of rallying people who have always hoped for success for this multi-based, diverse organization. TIACA, formed to advance logistics, is showing the signs of fulfilling its great promise of leading the way to elevating an industry through education, understanding and human contact.
     Read on as a message of hope emerges here:  That if Roos gets it done, TIACA takes one giant step in becoming what we have always hoped for since it began some 30 years ago at the In & Out Club in London.
 
Why Abu Dhabi?

     So, we asked, why Abu Dhabi this year? Roos responds, “TIACA since its formation met every two years in different locations around the world; For the last two ACFs, (alternate years) we met in Miami and now we are meeting in a consecutive year for the first time in Abu Dhabi, which is already proving to be a great success because of the number of registrants and exhibitors that have signed on.
     “Abu Dhabi stands out as a premier destination for hosting global air cargo events, thanks to its strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. This central location not only enhances global connectivity but also positions the city as a natural hub for international trade and logistics.
     “Complementing this geographical advantage is Abu Dhabi International Airport, one of the world’s most advanced aviation facilities. Equipped with state-of-the-art cargo handling infrastructure—including specialized cold chain solutions and high-capacity freight terminals—the airport ensures seamless and efficient global cargo operations.
     “Further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s reputation is the presence of Etihad Cargo, a leading global freight carrier headquartered in the city. With an extensive international network and a strong commitment to service excellence, Etihad Cargo reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a vital logistics gateway.
     “At the same time, the city is driving innovation and sustainability in logistics, investing heavily in smart technologies and eco-friendly solutions across the aviation and transport sectors.
     “This forward-thinking approach not only future-proofs its infrastructure but also appeals to industry leaders eager to align with sustainable and technologically advanced partners.
     “In this way, Abu Dhabi offers a compelling mix of connectivity, capability, and innovation—making it an exceptional host for world-class air cargo events.
Those topics are very important for us as TIACA. In addition, wonderful moments have been created for networking. The locations are stunning, and one of the most beautiful golf courses in Abu Dhabi has been reserved for TIACA.
     “And to be fair …  the temperature, be it November in many other places—helps as well,” Roos smiles.

Collaboration Punctuated With Passion Is On The Menu

     All of this sounds very uplifting, and we wonder what surprised Roos after being named to the position of Chair.
     “What has truly surprised me since becoming Chair Lady of this leading air cargo organization is the overwhelming support and collaboration from across the industry. I’ve been impressed by how open, innovative, and dedicated everyone is to driving progress together. It’s inspiring to see how much passion there is for shaping the future of air cargo, and I feel truly energized by the trust and enthusiasm shared by colleagues worldwide.
     “The TIACA team, consisting of Rachael, Kenneth, and Riley, is incredibly driven and passionate, which truly drives the organization forward. And of course, I don't want to forget the dedicated board members who provide strategic direction and keep us focused.”

What About Diversity

     We ask Roos how she intends to expand and bring diversity to TIACA and its stated missions.
     “For diversity in Air Cargo I will work on different topics, not only women, but of course also women!”
     Roos intends to tackle the age-old question of, how can the Industry reinvent Its workforce? She says it starts with recognizing the strength the industry already has and then determining where changes need to be made.
     “The airfreight industry is known for tradition and stability — but how far do we need to go to truly ‘reinvent’ it? Which old habits or structures are holding innovation back?
     “And of course, quite important for any industry to remain relevant and keep making progress; the balance of how can we attract young talent without losing the experience of older employees?”

Is GenZ To Be?

     “I feel it is very important to reposition Airfreight for Gen Z. There are issues that need to be addressed.
   •  Gen Z values purpose, sustainability, and flexibility — does that fit the airfreight industry today?
   •  What do companies need to do differently to appeal to young talent?
   •  How can the industry shift its image from ‘traditional and technical’ to ‘innovative and people-focused’?
   •  What role do social media and storytelling play in this transformation?
   •  What can we learn from other industries that have successfully engaged Gen Z?”

Abu Dhabi Days Good Time To Think About Forever

     “In my view, we need to provide mentorship, diversity, and inclusive pathways.
     “Mentorship sounds great — but pragmatically and practically how do we make sure it’s more than a checkbox on an HR plan?
     “The challenge is to facilitate building truly inclusive career paths, not just diversity in numbers; to have the older generation and the younger generation on the same field, because younger generations may have a different view of what mentorship means.
     “The goal is diversity and safety in one sentence: how do we create a culture where everyone feels safe to speak up.
     “In today’s world, we are faced with a fast-paced digital environment. We have to train for a digital future, keeping our humanity as well.
     “The questions we need to ask, think about and discuss as an industry will determine the future of air cargo:
   •  Are digital skills becoming more important than operational experience?
   •  What’s the biggest gap between technological progress and human adoption?
   •  What does the ideal digital learning environment look like in airfreight?”

Tell Me All You Know In Two Minutes

     We ask Roos, “given 2 minutes with everybody at ACF, what would you wish for them to know about you and your view of air cargo?”
     “So, I would say cargo is a 100% people industry which should embrace, all the new technologies (digitalisation and AI). But we must continue to work more closely together. “We must be wary of different “silos” in the industry . . .
      “We all need each other. 
     “Keep investing in your network, and value the individual.
     “I want to be approachable for the entire industry, for everyone. Business-wise, but also interpersonally.”
     The music is all around us now.
GDA/SSA