Ostend-Bruges Airport and Fraunhofer IML Recognized as Leaders in TIACA Awards

A recent publication by The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) highlights the winners of the seventh Air Cargo Sustainability Awards, which were held in collaboration with CHAMP Cargosystems. These awards shine a light on groundbreaking initiatives that are making strides toward sustainability and social responsibility within the air cargo sector.

The competition featured two main categories: Start-Up/Small Business and Corporate. A distinguished panel of seven industry experts assessed submissions based on their creativity, impact, practicality, and potential for long-term benefits.

Chris McDermott,CEO of CHAMP Cargosystems,expressed his admiration for all participants: “Your innovative ideas are steering air cargo towards a greener future. It’s clear that environmental care can go hand in hand with industry advancement. Kudos to all finalists! A special shoutout to our winners for their inspiring solutions. I also want to thank the TIACA team for orchestrating these impactful awards and fostering significant change in our field.”

Corporate Award Winner: Ostend-Bruges Airport

The 2025 Corporate Sustainability Award was awarded to Nathan de Valk from Ostend-Bruges Airport for its remarkable biodiversity initiative—a perfect example of how aviation can harmonize with ecological preservation.

This program actively engages local communities by collaborating with government bodies, farmers, and beekeepers. It not onyl enhances environmental awareness but also restores natural habitats while allowing residents and visitors to witness these efforts firsthand—boosting community pride in biodiversity while demonstrating how nature can coexist alongside airport operations.

Start-Up/Small Business Award Winner: Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML)

The top spot in the Start-Up/Small Business category went to Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) due to its cutting-edge solution aimed at optimizing logistics processes—details about this innovative approach will be shared soon. As part of their recognition, they will receive a cash prize of $10,000.

A notable finalist was Goods2Load—a smart logistics platform designed specifically for B2B operations that enhances load planning efficiency while minimizing waste during cargo transport; they earned $2,500 as well.

The finalists had an chance to showcase their projects during TIACA’s Executive Summit 2025 held in Hong Kong where attendees participated in selecting the winners through live voting.

“I extend my warmest congratulations to this year’s Sustainability Award recipients—Ostend-Bruges airport and Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML), along with all our extraordinary finalists,” saeid Steven Polmans from TIACA. “You embody the innovation necessary for a sustainable future within air cargo.” He also acknowledged every institution that submitted entries; your dedication is crucial as we strive towards an efficient yet responsible industry.”

“The enthusiasm displayed by this year’s participants reinforces that sustainability is evolving into a standard practice rather than just a passing trend,” remarked Glyn Hughes from TIACA. “We’re excited to honor Ostend Bruges Airport along with Fraunhofer Institute as well as all finalists who are paving the way forward.” He expressed gratitude towards CHAMP Cargosystems partners and judges whose insights contributed significantly throughout this process.

The official award ceremony took place at the Executive Summit 2025 event hosted in Hong Kong.