Caspian Air Cargo Summit celebrates a decade with landmark deals and record participation

The 10th edition of the Caspian Air Cargo Summit concluded in Baku with record participation and landmark announcements, strengthening Azerbaijan’s position as a key player in global logistics.

Hosted by Silk Way West Airlines at the Baku Convention Centre, the summit brought together more than 400 delegates from over 45 countries. Senior executives from leading companies including DSV, Boeing, Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Atlas Air Worldwide, ACL Airshop, Hactl and Kales Group discussed the future of air cargo, logistics and multimodal transport.

At the centre of the event was Silk Way Group’s growth strategy and Azerbaijan’s rising role in Eurasian logistics. A highlight was the Alat Free Economic Zone Airport & Cargo Village project, a 750-hectare facility designed to link air, sea, road and rail transport. Construction is expected to finish by the end of 2026, with operations set to begin in early 2027. Within this framework, Silk Way Group announced a joint venture with dnata as handling operator, a memorandum of understanding with ExecuJet to develop business aviation and FBO services, and a Gulfstream regional service centre at the new airport.

Silk Way West Airlines also confirmed progress in its fleet renewal programme, adding 10 Boeing 777 and 4 Airbus A350 freighters. This step aims to maintain one of the youngest and most efficient long-haul cargo fleets worldwide. Conference sessions further explored the growing importance of the Middle Corridor in global trade, along with digital innovation, sustainable aviation and new investment opportunities across Central Eurasia.

“The 10th edition of the Caspian Air Cargo Summit reflects not only the growth of this event over the past decades, but also the dynamism of our industry,” said Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group. “Together with our partners and customers, we continue to navigate challenges and seize opportunities that strengthen Azerbaijan’s role as a global logistics hub.”

First launched in 2006, the Caspian Air Cargo Summit has grown into the leading airfreight and logistics event in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Organised by Euroavia International and hosted by Silk Way West Airlines, the summit continues to connect industry leaders with the fast-evolving opportunities of the Middle Corridor.