Airport cargo hubs of the future: Automation, smart warehousing, and sustainability

At transport logistic & air cargo Americas 2025, industry leaders gathered to discuss the future of airport cargo hubs and how automation, smart warehousing, and sustainability are reshaping global trade. As cargo volumes rise and supply chains demand speed and resilience, airports are rethinking how freight moves from aircraft to warehouse.

Reji John, Editor, STAT Publishing Group moderated the discussion with Ajay Barolia (EVP Cargo, Swissport North America), Eduardo Arenas (Strategic Alliances & Transformation, Avianca Cargo), and Anthony Orlandini (SVP Finance & Infrastructure – North America, Latam Airlines Group). The discussion explored cutting edge technologies such as autonomous vehicles, robotic sorters, AI powered inventory systems, and predictive analytics. The panel highlights how smart warehousing and IoT are reducing delays, while sustainability initiatives, from electric ground fleets to energy efficient terminals, are becoming central to infrastructure design.

Through real world examples and open debate, the panel examines whether too much automation risks chaos, and how collaboration across airlines, handlers, and airports can build intelligent, low impact cargo ecosystems for the next era of global trade.