The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) has called for a formal review of proposed changes to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Direct Air Waybill (DAWB) framework, warning that the revisions could significantly alter liability structures and disrupt long-standing commercial practices in the global air cargo industry. The debate centres on amendments being introduced under IATA’s Modernisation of the Global Air Cargo Programme. According to FIATA, the proposed framework changes may shift operational and legal responsibilities disproportionately onto freight forwarders while favouring larger market participants. The organisation argues that such changes could create uncertainty across the air cargo ecosystem at a time when supply chains are already facing geopolitical disruptions, cost pressures, and growing compliance demands. FIATA stated that the current proposals require broader consultation and deeper analysis before implementation. The association emphasised that freight forwarders, airlines, insurers, and regulators must collectively evaluate the legal, operational, and insurance implications of the revised Direct Air Waybill structure. The Direct Air Waybill is a critical document used in international air freight shipments where cargo moves directly between the shipper and airline without a traditional house air waybill issued by a freight forwarder. Industry experts note that any changes to the framework could affect liability allocation, cargo claims processes, and contractual obligations across the supply chain. FIATA Director General Dr Stéphane Graber highlighted the importance of ensuring that industry modernisation efforts remain balanced and collaborative. The organisation has consistently supported digitalisation and efficiency improvements in air cargo but maintains that reforms should reflect real-world market practices and protect all stakeholders equally. Industry concerns intensified following discussions at recent air cargo forums, where freight forwarders expressed apprehension over the pace and scope of the proposed revisions. Several stakeholders fear that the updated framework could increase legal exposure for intermediaries while reducing operational flexibility for smaller logistics providers. According to FIATA, modernisation initiatives should enhance trust, interoperability, and resilience across the air cargo sector rather than create additional friction. The organisation also cautioned that introducing major changes without comprehensive legal and technical assessment could lead to increased disputes and market instability. The issue arrives at a pivotal moment for the global air cargo industry, which is accelerating digital transformation initiatives, including electronic documentation and data-sharing systems. As airlines and logistics providers push for greater efficiency, industry bodies are under pressure to ensure that regulatory and procedural reforms do not undermine commercial balance. FIATA has urged IATA and industry stakeholders to engage in further dialogue before finalising the Direct AWB framework changes. The association reiterated that collaborative governance and transparent consultation will be essential to maintaining confidence and stability in global air freight operations. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!