Air cargo/global logistics: Autopilot not an option for freight forwarders in the future

SAN FRANCISCO—A major industry figure told shippers to be ready for a “turbulent ride” in the days ahead when it comes to security mandates.

“Given all the political changes in Washington, the future of our industry is in serious jeopardy,” said Brandon Fried, executive director of the Air Forwarders Association (AfA). “Under the Obama administration, we can expect aviation security measures to double, and that will mean higher costs placed on all of us.”

Speaking at a luncheon organized by the San Francisco Air Cargo Association (SFACA) last week, Fried noted that the implementation of the “Certified Cargo Screening Program” is making slow but steady progress, and “is here to stay.”

“And with no federal dollars being spent on it, we will have to shoulder the burden of providing equipment, personnel and training,” he said.

At the same time, he said, many airports don’t even have the room necessary to store screening machines, and forwarders are still waiting for the government to approve machines capable of screening palletized cargo.

“Without that,” he said, “freight may only be accepted on a ‘loose’ basis, requiring airlines to inspect each load on a piece level.”

The Certified Cargo Screening program is still the most “pragmatic” plan out there, allowed Fried, noting that a repeal might take as long as three years.

“And it’s unlikely to be overturned due to the political firestorm around its passage,” he added.

At the same time the AfA is taking a stand against airport screening done by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Fried said that the TSA lacks performance benchmarks and may result in lost freight and irregularities in free market pricing.

“As forwarders, we can’t afford a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach that lacks the complexity of process,” he said. “The result would be missed flights and compromises in our business models.”

Fried also observed that the TSA has yet to name a new administrator. His hope is that the candidate will have the necessary background in cargo operations to oversee security mandates and help forwarders with compliance.

“So far only two airport pilot programs were given any money,” he said. “Forwarders are now looking to the government for help with low cost loans and federal grants to make the transition a little easier.”

Meanwhile, said Fried, “going on auto-pilot” is not an option.

“We must educate the TSA staff, be advocates for sound legislation and rulemakings, and work with other industry associations to achieve a sustainable solution to all of this.”
Source: Logistics Management