CNS Preparing for 2026 Annual Partnership Conference in San Francisco

The CNS Annual Partnership Conference 2026 is set to take place in San Francisco from 18–20 May 2026, under the theme “Elevating Air Cargo: Partnerships, Progress & Possibilities.” It’s positioned as the premier networking event for the U.S. air cargo industry, expected to bring together about 700 stakeholders across the value chain.

Opening & Keynote:
CNS President Alicia Lines will open the event, followed by a keynote from Brandon Fried, Executive Director of the Airforwarder Association.

C‑Level Panel:
Moderated by Kes Nielsen (Amazon Air Cargo), featuring leaders from Avianca Cargo, DSV, and Etihad Cargo, focusing on AI and technology’s impact on the industry.

Plenary Sessions:
Covering the state of the industry, economic trends, operational challenges, and regulatory updates.

Innovation Stage Topics:
- ONE Record implementation challenges and progress
- Smarter payments with CNS FlexiPay
- AI applications in air cargo
- E-commerce logistics scaling
- Dangerous goods detection and compliance
- U.S. ACE Export Manifest changes

Networking & Social Events
- Golf Tournament (18 May)
- Napa Valley Excursion for non-golfers
- Meet & Greet Session for airlines and freight forwarders to pre-schedule meetings and explore partnerships

Industry Context
- Air cargo moves 180,000 tonnes of goods daily worldwide, vital for global trade and humanitarian efforts.
- In the U.S., 34 million tonnes were handled in 2023.
- San Francisco, the host city, is highlighted as a hub for technology and innovation, aligning with the conference’s forward-looking agenda.