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
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.
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.

