TIACA Announces Leadership Transition at Air Cargo Forum 2025 in Abu Dhabi

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) is pleased to announce the official handover of the office of the Chair to Roos Bakker, Manager of Business Development & Contract Management at ICTS Europe, during the Air Cargo Forum 2025 held in Abu Dhabi. Ms. Bakker succeeds outgoing Chair Steven Polmans, marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership for the association as it continues to represent and unite all sectors of the global air cargo industry.

Roos Bakker brings extensive experience in aviation business development, operations management, and process optimization. As an accomplished aviation professional with a proven history of leadership in airport operations and security, she combines strategic insight with a collaborative approach. A graduate of the University of Amsterdam, Ms. Bakker is recognized for her ability to drive efficiency and foster partnerships across the aviation ecosystem.

“I am honored to take on the role of Chair at such a transformative time for our industry,” said Roos Bakker, TIACA Chair. “TIACA serves as a vital platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation. I look forward to working with our members and partners worldwide to continue advancing the air cargo industry and shaping a sustainable, connected future.”

The association also announced that the two Co-Vice Chair positions will be filled by Emir Pineda, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development at Miami-Dade Aviation Department, and Tushar Jani, Chairman of Cargo Service Center (CSC) Group and SCA Group of Companies.

Emir Pineda is a highly experienced aviation executive with over three decades of expertise in air service development, marketing, and global trade facilitation. At Miami International Airport (MIA), he oversees strategic planning, route development, branding, and business growth initiatives, including the innovative MIA Discover platform. His distinguished career spans leadership roles at DFW International Airport, Air France/KLM Martinair, and Cargolux, as well as advisory work across the public and private sectors. A graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Mr. Pineda is recognized for his leadership in advancing connectivity, sustainability, and innovation within the global aviation community.

Tushar Jani is a pioneering entrepreneur and visionary leader in India’s logistics and aviation sectors, with more than 40 years of experience spanning freight forwarding, express logistics, aviation, and supply chain management. He is the Co-founder and former Chairman of Blue Dart Express Limited, India’s leading international and domestic courier company, and the Co-founder and Chairman of Blue Dart Aviation Limited, the country’s first private air cargo carrier. Mr. Jani also chairs the Air Cargo Handlers Association of India and has served in leadership roles across several national industry bodies, including ACFI, CII, andFFFAI. A Mumbai University graduate, he has been instrumental in shaping India’s logistics policy framework and driving modernization through public-private partnerships and innovation in air cargo infrastructure.

“It has been an incredible honor to serve as Chair of TIACA and to work alongside so many passionate and committed professionals who care deeply about the future of air cargo. I am confident that under Roos’s capable leadership, supported by Emir and Tushar, TIACA will continue to strengthen its global impact, foster innovation, and build on the solid foundation we have established together.” stated outgoing Chair, Steven Polmans

“TIACA has really moved on significantly under Steven’s leadership these past 6 years, guiding through a transformation program that established a new pathway for the association to follow and flourish.  We truly valued his leadership, dedication and friendship.  And to continue this great work we are pleased to announce this leadership transition at the Air Cargo Forum in Abu Dhabi. Roos, Emir, and Tushar bring a wealth of international experience and a shared commitment to progress, collaboration, and sustainability. Their collective leadership will further strengthen TIACA’s role as the global voice of the air cargo industry.” said, Glyn Hughes, Director General.