Frankfurt am Main, 3 February 2026 – At the Aviation-Event 2026 Germany – Luftverkehrsgipfel Deutschland, held at HOLM (House of Logistics & Mobility) in Frankfurt high-profile decision-makers gathered to discuss the future of Germany’s position in international competition.

A High-Profile Panel

Alongside political contributions from Stefan Schnorr (State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transport), Manfred Pentz (Minister for Federal and European Affairs, State of Hesse) and Stephanie Wüst (City Councillor and Head of the Department for Economic Affairs, Legal Affairs and City Marketing, City of Frankfurt am Main), the International Media Kickoff featured a prominently assembled expert panel. The session was moderated by Rüdiger Kiani-Kress (WirtschaftsWoche).

In a panel discussion with international industry leaders such as Ivan Bassato (Rome Airports), David Carlisle (Condor) and Mete Erna (TAV Airports Holding), Marc Oedekoven (Managing Partner KIBIX Logistics GmbH and Chairman LAG – Logistics Alliance Germany e. V.) emphasised the essential role of logistics.

Logistics as an Indispensable Economic Driver

Marc Oedekoven emphasised on the panel the critical importance of functioning supply chains for the global economy. Without efficient international transport networks, production and assembly processes worldwide would come to a standstill. Modern distribution channels such as e-commerce, he noted, are equally dependent on this infrastructure for their very existence.

Oedekoven placed particular emphasis on the role of air cargo: it is an indispensable component of global trade, accounting for approximately 35 percent of the value of all goods traded internationally. The entire ecosystem – from airports and warehouses to airlines and freight forwarders through to local logistics service providers – plays an equally vital role in maintaining global connectivity.

Digitalisation as a mandatory task

On the subject of future-proofing the industry, Marc Oedekoven took a clear stance: “Without comprehensive and far-reaching digitalisation of processes, global trade growth will stagnate and the future of air freight will be jeopardised. Digitalisation must be a top priority for all players in the industry, including policymakers.”
The aviation ecosystem, he argued, can only secure its long-term competitiveness through sustainability, innovation and consistent digital transformation.

Shaping Change Together

The summit sent a clear signal: only through close collaboration between business and politics can the necessary transformation be driven forward with determination, ensuring that Germany remains part of global developments. The Logistics Alliance Germany regards this commitment as a core part of its mission to actively shape the competitiveness and future viability of Germany as a logistics hub.