The CNS Partnership Conference 2026 will take place from May 18 to 20 at the Hilton Union Square Hotel in San Francisco, bringing together more than 700 senior executives from airlines, freight forwarders, airports, and logistics solution providers. Considered one of the most relevant industry gatherings in the Americas, the event is organized by Cargo Network Services (CNS), the U.S. subsidiary of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and has established itself as a key platform for business development and the strengthening of commercial relationships in the sector, with a strong focus on creating real business opportunities through direct engagement among stakeholders across the air transport value chain.
The event will bring together a wide range of players from the air cargo ecosystem, including industry executives and leaders, airline representatives, ground service providers, freight forwarders, airport operators, and technology and logistics solution companies.
Strategy, innovation, and market outlook
The 2026 edition will feature an agenda focused on strategic analysis and industry transformation, combining high-level sessions with dedicated networking opportunities. The event will open with the Opening Plenary Session, which will include a CEO panel titled “Leading Through Uncertainty: Global Air Cargo Strategies in Shifting Markets,” where airline leaders will discuss key challenges and opportunities in an evolving global environment.
The program will also cover key topics such as the growth of e-commerce and its impact on air cargo, digitalization and process automation, the use of artificial intelligence, sustainability, regulation and compliance, as well as commercial strategies and partnerships in a constantly evolving market. Together, these themes aim to address current industry challenges while promoting greater efficiency, resilience, and competitiveness.
Networking at the core
One of the conference’s main differentiators is its structure designed to facilitate business connections. Through digital tools and dedicated spaces, attendees can schedule meetings in advance and maximize their participation during the event.
Key initiatives include the Meet & Greet, which enables brief and structured meetings between airlines and freight forwarders, fostering new business opportunities—particularly for small and medium-sized companies. In addition, the CNS Connect Zone will provide an ongoing space for informal interaction, collaboration, and networking throughout the conference.
Why attend?
The CNS Partnership Conference has established itself as a strategic meeting point for those looking to strengthen their position in the air cargo industry. Its combination of specialized content and networking opportunities allows participants to expand their professional network, identify new business opportunities, stay informed on emerging trends, and keep up to date with regulatory developments impacting the sector.
With the participation of key players from the U.S. and regional markets, the CNS Partnership Conference stands out as a key platform for understanding the trends shaping the industry and for strengthening business ties in an increasingly competitive environment. Companies interested in attending, exhibiting, or sponsoring can find more information through CNS’s official channels. www.cnsc.net
