Global Airfare Standards to Shift Under Iatas New PTCCM Initiative

Global Airfare Standards to Shift Under Iatas New PTCCM Initiative

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released the 8th edition of the Passenger Tariff Coordinating Conference Manual (PTCCM), updating industry standards across five pillars: general definitions, mileage principles, fare construction, currency application, and baggage rules. This new edition revises several resolutions to enhance fare transparency, reduce operational costs, promote international cooperation, and optimize the passenger experience. The updated PTCCM provides clearer and more efficient fare management regulations for the global aviation industry.

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Gains in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased year-over-year for the week ending January 21st, driven primarily by nonmetallic minerals, coal, and motor vehicle parts. Intermodal traffic, however, decreased compared to the same period last year. Total North American rail traffic experienced a slight decline, reflecting regional economic variations and global economic uncertainties. This data provides insights into the current state of the freight economy and its underlying trends.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

West Coast Ports Resume Labor Talks to Prevent Congestion

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) are scheduled to resume negotiations to proactively address contract extensions and prevent future freight congestion at West Coast ports. These talks are critical to global trade stability. Key negotiation points are expected to include wages and benefits, automation, job security, and contract duration. The outcome will directly impact shippers' supply chain efficiency and costs, making a timely agreement essential to avoid disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

US Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike on January 15th. Automation remains a central point of contention in the talks. Failure to reach an agreement could significantly disrupt global supply chains, impacting trade and potentially leading to economic consequences. The outcome of these labor negotiations is crucial for maintaining the stability and efficiency of port operations across the United States.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Face Staffing Crunch As Trade Volumes Rise

US Ports Face Staffing Crunch As Trade Volumes Rise

The American Association of Port Authorities calls for increased customs staffing to address the contradiction between growing trade and personnel shortages. Existing recruitment challenges and resource misallocation exacerbate port operational pressures. It is recommended to increase the budget, optimize allocation, simplify recruitment processes, and consider hiring veterans to ensure trade security and efficiency. The current situation strains port operations, highlighting the urgent need for improved staffing levels to maintain smooth trade flows.

IATA Introduces BSP Course to Simplify Agency Ticketing

IATA Introduces BSP Course to Simplify Agency Ticketing

IATA (International Air Transport Association) introduces an introductory online course on the BSP (Billing and Settlement Plan) system. This course aims to help travel agency professionals understand the BSP system's operational principles and improve ticketing settlement efficiency. The curriculum covers fundamental BSP concepts, terminology, participants, and ticketing reporting procedures. It is suitable for accountants, travel agency staff, and other relevant professionals. Upon completion and passing the exam, participants will receive an IATA certificate of completion.

California Truckers Struggle with AB5 Compliance

California Truckers Struggle with AB5 Compliance

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals rejected the California Trucking Association (CTA)'s challenge to AB-5, raising compliance concerns for California's trucking industry regarding the 'employer-operator' model. AB-5's strict definition of independent contractors may force companies to reclassify many drivers as employees, leading to increased operating costs, reduced capacity, and heightened legal risks. Businesses need to actively explore compliance strategies and transition pathways to navigate the new regulatory landscape.

BCG Uses IATA Data to Guide Aviation Industry Future

BCG Uses IATA Data to Guide Aviation Industry Future

The International Air Transport Association (IATA)'s '20-Year Passenger Forecast' provides a strategic reference for the aviation industry. Boston Consulting Group (BCG) offers insights and applications of this report, combined with its own methodologies, to advise clients on growth strategy, operational optimization, and customer experience enhancement. BCG helps clients succeed in the aviation market by leveraging this forecast and providing tailored solutions to navigate future challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Yearend Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads indicates that U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year for the week ending December 15th, but cumulative volumes remain slightly up for the year. Detailed data reveals varied performance across different commodity categories, reflecting structural market adjustments. Railroad companies need to pay attention to macroeconomic factors, supply chains, and the energy transition to actively address challenges, embrace change, and achieve sustainable development.

12/19/2025 Logistics
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IATA Calls for Fairer Flight Scheduling with Slot Optimization

IATA Calls for Fairer Flight Scheduling with Slot Optimization

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is advocating for improvements to the 'Justified Non-Utilization of Slots' (JNUS) mechanism. This aims to address situations where airlines are unable to utilize their allocated flight slots due to uncontrollable factors. IATA encourages airlines to share their experiences and participate in refining the mechanism through feedback forms. The goal is to collectively promote fairness and transparency in flight schedule management, ensuring the sustainable development of the aviation industry.