Airlink founder Steve Smith named to lead Airforwarders Association

The Airforwarders Association, a logistics organization that works with airlines to help humanitarian groups transport relief supplies during crises, has appointed Steve Smith as its new executive director. Smith, formerly the CEO of Airlink, will assume the position from Brandon Fried, who is set to retire in December.

Before founding Airlink in 2013, Smith served as director of civil aerospace at Rolls Royce. During his tenure at Airlink, he successfully engaged over 50 airlines and logistics companies, as well as 250 humanitarian groups across 100 countries, assisting more than 80 million people in need during more than 200 disasters and crises.

Smith's experience spans aviation, logistics, and crisis management, having worked with major global disruptions such as COVID-19, the Russia-Ukraine War, Ebola outbreak, and the 2023 Türkiye earthquake. His ability to build relationships across the industry and his understanding of air cargo issues make him well-suited for the role.

The Airforwarders Association lobbies on various issues, including air cargo security, airport infrastructure, and trade facilitation. Fried, who has led the Association for 21 years, expressed confidence in Smith's ability to lead the organization and continue its advocacy work amid current challenges in trade policy, geopolitical disruption, and aging infrastructure.