Airforwarders Association
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) is a global alliance of indirect air carriers, cargo airlines and affiliated businesses. The association represents member companies, ranging from small businesses to those with over 1,000 people, dedicated to moving cargo throughout the supply chain.
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AIRFORWARDERS ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP REPORT WIDESPREAD DISRUPTION AND RISING COSTS FROM MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT
Survey finds most forwarders affected, with more than half facing cost increases amid ongoing global uncertainty
Washington D.C., United States, Tuesday 24th March 2026: The majority of the Airforwarders Association (AfA) membership is experiencing operational disruption linked to the conflict in the Middle East, while half report increased costs, according to new survey data.
The survey of members found that more than three quarters are facing some level of disruption, with 29 percent reporting significant impact and 38 percent moderate impact.
“This data shows a sector under sustained pressure from global events beyond its control, with disruption, cost inflation, and uncertainty compounding daily operational challenges,” said Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarders Association.
Cost pressures are also rising, with more than two thirds of respondents reporting measurable increases, including 27 percent citing significant increases and 41 percent moderate increases.
Members identified rate volatility, flight cancellations, capacity constraints, and longer transit times as the most common issues, alongside growing customer service pressures and space embargoes.
“Forwarders are adapting in real time, but they need a stable operating environment to keep goods moving efficiently,” added Fried.
The AfA is also calling for a resolution to the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, which has been ongoing since February 13, and for policymakers to prioritise payment of Transportation Security Administration personnel to avoid further disruption to aviation operations.
“Ending uncertainty, whether operational or regulatory, is critical to maintaining the resilience and reliability of the air cargo sector,” said Fried.
The AfA will continue to provide members with operational updates and advocate for measures that support supply chain stability and predictability.
About the Airforwarders Association
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) represents hundreds of U.S companies dedicated to moving cargo through the supply chain on all modes of transport.
AfA has been supporting member companies of all sizes for 35 years, acting as the voice of the industry and lobbying legislators to help drive sustainable practices and ensure resilient, safe, secure supply chains.
As an alliance of indirect air carriers, cargo airlines and related businesses operating across the global transportation community, we represent member companies dedicated to moving air cargo through the supply chain.
Our members include not only air forwarders, but truckers, airlines, warehouse operators and businesses delivering a range of supporting services including technology, training, compliance, insurance and legal, just to name a few industries.
From campaigning for better national infrastructure to opening discussions about carbon reductions and digitilization – AfA has promoted hundreds of its members and streamlined business models to continue the growing industry.
More information at airforwarders.org
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Airforwarders Association membership report widespread disruption and rising costs from Middle East conflict
Survey finds most forwarders affected, with more than half facing cost increases amid ongoing global uncertainty
Washington D.C., United States, Tuesday 24th March 2026: The majority of the Airforwarders Association (AfA) membership is experiencing operational disruption linked to the conflict in the Middle East, while half report increased costs, according to new survey data.
The survey of members found that more than three quarters are facing some level of disruption, with 29 percent reporting significant impact and 38 percent moderate impact.
“This data shows a sector under sustained pressure from global events beyond its control, with disruption, cost inflation, and uncertainty compounding daily operational challenges,” said Brandon Fried, Executive Director, Airforwarders Association.
Cost pressures are also rising, with more than two thirds of respondents reporting measurable increases, including 27 percent citing significant increases and 41 percent moderate increases.
Members identified rate volatility, flight cancellations, capacity constraints, and longer transit times as the most common issues, alongside growing customer service pressures and space embargoes.
“Forwarders are adapting in real time, but they need a stable operating environment to keep goods moving efficiently,” added Fried.
The AfA is also calling for a resolution to the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, which has been ongoing since February 13, and for policymakers to prioritise payment of Transportation Security Administration personnel to avoid further disruption to aviation operations.
“Ending uncertainty, whether operational or regulatory, is critical to maintaining the resilience and reliability of the air cargo sector,” said Fried.
The AfA will continue to provide members with operational updates and advocate for measures that support supply chain stability and predictability.
Latest from Airforwarders Association
About the Airforwarders Association
The Airforwarders Association (AfA) represents hundreds of U.S companies dedicated to moving cargo through the supply chain on all modes of transport.
AfA has been supporting member companies of all sizes for 35 years, acting as the voice of the industry and lobbying legislators to help drive sustainable practices and ensure resilient, safe, secure supply chains.
As an alliance of indirect air carriers, cargo airlines and related businesses operating across the global transportation community, we represent member companies dedicated to moving air cargo through the supply chain.
Our members include not only air forwarders, but truckers, airlines, warehouse operators and businesses delivering a range of supporting services including technology, training, compliance, insurance and legal, just to name a few industries.
From campaigning for better national infrastructure to opening discussions about carbon reductions and digitilization – AfA has promoted hundreds of its members and streamlined business models to continue the growing industry.
More information at airforwarders.org