Accenture released a new version of its Air Cargo Suite software with advanced capabilities that can help carriers become more flexible, competitive and efficient through streamlined operations and data integration. The entire suite is now also available for delivery as a service, enabling carriers of all sizes to take advantage of a robust cargo management solution while retaining the agility and cost benefits of SaaS.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global airfreight markets, showing a modest 1.6 percent rise in volumes in March compared to a year ago, measured in freight tonne kilometers.

The United States moved closer to legalizing the commercial use of drones in February, when the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) published proposed regulations. Although some criticized the rules as too restrictive (for example, drones would have to fly only during daylight and within sight of the operator), there is plenty of time for the FAA to change the regulations before they become final, in one to two years.

Steve Geary, president of Supply Chain Visions, shares stories of "extreme" supply chains in Afghanistan – and tells how those strategies and lessons can be applied in the U.S.