World Cargo Symposium (WCS)

March 10 – 12, 2026
Lima Convention Center (LCC), Lima, Peru

The IATA World Cargo Symposium (WCS) is the premier event for the global air cargo industry. In 2026, the symposium heads to South America for the first time, hosted in the vibrant city of Lima, Peru. Whether you are looking to navigate shifting trade lanes or accelerate your digital transformation, WCS 2026 is the place to be. 

Is WCS 2026 Worth Attending?

If you are an airline executive, freight forwarder, or solution provider, the answer is a resounding yes.

WCS is the largest and most prestigious annual event in the air cargo industry. With nearly 2,000 delegates expected, it offers a unique concentration of decision-makers. The 2026 agenda focuses on:

  • Digitalization: Moving beyond paper to fully integrated digital ecosystems.
  • Sustainability: Practical pathways toward net-zero CO2 emissions.
  • Geopolitical Resilience: Strategies for adapting to shifting global trade conditions.

Logistics Guide: Navigating Lima

Lima is a strategic hub connecting the Americas, and visiting in March offers beautiful late-summer weather.

Where to Stay

IATA has secured official room blocks at several top-tier hotels near the San Borja district. We recommend staying at:

  • The Westin Lima Hotel: The premier business choice with excellent amenities.
  • Aloft Lima Miraflores: For those who prefer the vibrant atmosphere of the Miraflores district (approx. 20-minute commute).

What to Wear

The vibe at WCS is Business Professional. While the days are warm (avg. 26°C / 79°F), the Convention Center is air-conditioned, so bring a light blazer. For evening networking, “Business Casual” is the standard for Lima’s world-class dining scene.

Freightos-Approved Dining

Lima is the “Gastronomy Capital of the World.” Don’t leave without visiting:

  • Central or Kjolle: Ranked among the best in the world (book weeks in advance!).
  • Maido: For incredible Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese) fusion.
  • Panchita: For authentic Peruvian anticuchos in a lively business setting.

Meet the Freightos Team at WCS 2026

While you navigate the symposium, stop by the Freightos Meeting Room to discuss how the industry is becoming more connected.

Our mission at WCS is to bridge the gap between Airlines, Forwarders, and Shippers through real-time data and seamless execution.

Why Schedule a Meeting?

Our leadership team will be on the ground to discuss:

  • Market-Leading Digital Distribution: How to scale your reach in over 100 countries.
  • Fully Digitized Interlining: Our innovative solution for complex, multi-leg shipments.
  • Flexible Payment Solutions: Improve cash flow and customer loyalty with Freightos Pay.

Meet Our Experts:

  • Julien Triay, Commercial VP – Airlines & Payments: Ask Julien about our new partnerships thread and digital payment ecosystems.
  • Toby Hillier, Head of Airline Sales (EMEA & Americas): Talk to Toby about optimizing airline distribution and interlining efficiency.

WCS 2026 Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main themes for WCS 2026?
The 2026 theme is “Advancing Air Cargo in a Dynamic World,” focusing on digitalization, regulation, and sustainability.
Where is the venue for WCS 2026?
The event is held at the Lima Convention Center (LCC) in Lima, Peru.
Who attends the World Cargo Symposium?
WCS brings together airline executives, solution providers, GSAs, and supply chain professionals from across the globe.
Is there a host airline for 2026?
Yes, LATAM Cargo is the host airline for the Lima edition.
Why should I attend WCS 2026?
WCS is the world’s most influential air cargo event, and the 2026 edition in Lima marks its historic first time in South America. Attending gives you a front-row seat to the regulatory shifts and digital standards (like ONE Record) that will define the next decade of logistics. With over 1,000 industry leaders in one venue, it is the most efficient way to secure new partnerships and stay ahead of global trade volatility.
Why should I meet with the Freightos team in Lima?
As the industry shifts toward “connected cargo,” Freightos is the bridge between Airlines, Forwarders, and Shippers. Meet with Julien and Toby to discover:
For Airlines: How to implement market-leading digital distribution and fully digitized interlining to increase yields.
For Forwarders: How to leverage real-time data and automated payments to streamline your procurement and improve cash flow.
The “Pay” Advantage: Learn how our flexible payment solutions are specifically designed to solve the industry’s unique cross-border settlement challenges.
Who is the main audience at this event?
The World Cargo Symposium is a high-level gathering designed for decision-makers. The primary audience includes:
Airlines: Cargo executives and digital transformation leads.
Freight Forwarders & GSAs: Global and regional leadership looking for capacity and tech.
Solution Providers: Innovators in AI, payments, and sustainability.
Regulators: Government officials and IATA experts shaping industry standards.
Is WCS a well-known event in the industry?
Absolutely. IATA’s World Cargo Symposium is widely recognized as the most prestigious annual organization in the air cargo sector. It isn’t just a tradeshow; it is where the global agenda for air freight is set. If a major policy change or technological standard is being adopted in air cargo, it is likely being announced or debated at WCS.

Come Meet Us

Julien Triay

Commercial VP – Airlines & Payments
Ask Julien about our new partnerships thread and digital payment ecosystems.

Toby Hillier

Head of Airline Sales (EMEA & Americas)
Talk to Toby about optimizing airline distribution and interlining efficiency.

Complete this form to request a free demo

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