Brandon Fried, executive director of Airforwarders Association (AfA) discusses a variety of topics challenging the air freight sector with the AJOT including innovation within the cold chain.

With a network of over 350 stations, including 230 for “Passive Temp Support” products and 120 for “Active Temp Control”, Lufthansa Cargo provides a consistently high level of quality for temperature-sensitive goods worldwide.

For more than three decades, Washington, D.C.-based Airforwarders Association (AfA) has advocated on behalf of freight forwarders worldwide. With over 400 members - big and small - the organization represents a wide range of companies, from airlines to truckers to warehouse operators. Brandon Fried, executive director of AfA, recently discussed a cross section of topics with AJOT including innovation within the cold chain, forward thinking airports and tariff frustration.

Brandon Fried, executive director of AfA

AJOT: How has technology within the temperature-controlled sector contributed to its explosive growth over the past decade?

Fried: Technology has revolutionized the cold chain. We now see real-time tracking, condition monitoring, and remote alerts that help maintain integrity from origin to destination. These advances have made it possible to move high-value, sensitive goods with confidence - fueling dramatic growth, particularly in pharma and biologics.

AJOT: Can we expect air cargo companies to continue the innovation?

Fried: Absolutely. With AI, IoT, and automation continuing to evolve, innovation in air cargo is just getting started. Sustainability will also drive new thinking—from electric ground equipment to smarter routing and packaging.

AJOT: Are airports keeping up with the cold chain’s growth curve?

Fried: Some are, while others are still playing catch-up. The more forward-thinking airports are investing in critical infrastructure like on-site cold storage, specialized cargo handling facilities, and improved customs clearance procedures. But to truly meet the demands of today’s cold chain, broader investment and coordination are essential.

That’s why the Airforwarders Association, alongside other key stakeholders, successfully advocated for the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study airport truck congestion - a growing challenge that directly affects cold chain reliability. This study, now underway and codified in last year’s FAA reauthorization law, will help identify where bottlenecks exist and recommend solutions that ensure our airports can keep pace with the needs of temperature-sensitive shipments. It’s a critical step toward modernizing ground access and cargo flow infrastructure nationwide.

AJOT: The growth of temperature-controlled air freight and the pharma/life sciences industry have gone hand in hand, do you see this progression continuing?

Fried: Yes, and [it is] likely accelerating. The demand for specialized healthcare products, biologics, and time-critical treatments is growing globally. Air cargo is well-positioned to support that growth, especially as populations age and healthcare access expands in emerging markets.

AJOT: Do you see the transport of perishable food products via air freight increasing?

Fried: We do, particularly with rising consumer demand for fresh, premium, and exotic products delivered quickly. The key will be balancing cost and sustainability with speed and freshness, which will further push innovation in cold chain logistics.

AJOT: In early March, you stated 62% of AfA members are “highly concerned” about impending U.S. tariffs and the subsequent fallout…What is the feeling among the membership three months later?

Fried: We believe the level of concern remains consistent, as trade uncertainty continues to weigh on business planning. That said, we’ll be surveying our members again next week to get an updated snapshot of their sentiment, particularly as election-year dynamics evolve.

AJOT: In addition to air forwarders, AfA’s membership includes truckers, airlines, warehouse operators, etc…In the current environment, how is their expertise being put to the test?

Fried: Our members are constantly adapting. From implementing advanced tracking systems to optimizing multi-modal logistics, they’re working harder than ever to ensure reliability despite global disruptions. Collaboration across the supply chain has become essential, and our members’ deep expertise allows them to pivot quickly when conditions change.

AJOT: Is there a level of frustration?

Fried: Yes, there’s certainly a degree of frustration—especially when policy shifts happen quickly or with limited consultation. The pace of regulatory change, rising compliance burdens, and capacity imbalances all create headwinds. But there’s also determination, and our members continue to rise to the challenge.

AJOT: Is the logistics/transportation sector’s message being heard in Washington?

Fried: We’re making progress. Through ongoing dialogue with federal agencies and lawmakers, we’re working to ensure the voice of forwarders and supply chain professionals is not only heard but respected. We are especially encouraged by this morning’s call for applicants to serve on the Transportation Security Administration’s Aviation Security Advisory Committee. The group has not met since last year and serves an essential role in providing safety policy insight and feedback to the TSA. That said, we must remain persistent—especially on issues like regulatory reform and infrastructure investment.

AJOT: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fried: Only that the air cargo industry remains incredibly resilient. Whether navigating global disruptions, adopting new technologies, or responding to customer needs, our members are proving once again why they are essential to the global economy. The Airforwarders Association is proud to represent such a dynamic and forward-looking community.