#INTHEAIREVERYWHERE
Friday
February 14,
2025
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#INTHEAIREVERYWHERE |
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| Vol. 24 No. 6 | Friday
February 14,
2025 |
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New Horizons For Ian Morgan |
Ian Morgan, the likeable air cargo industry stalwart that joined Alaska Airlines Cargo last September, is never at a loss for words when it comes to thinking big, and the addition of Hawaiian Airlines is a particularly sweet spot right now. We caught up with Ian in his role as Alaska Airlines' vice president of cargo, leading the combined teams of Alaska Air Cargo and Hawaiian Air Cargo wondering with six months under his belt since being tapped for an exciting new adventure …. what surprised you ? IM: I’m energized by the scope and scale of the airline as it grows with the Hawaiian combination. We have a ton of opportunity for customers across the globe to get to know us as well as those in our historical key markets do. With widebody, narrowbody and freighter service, we’re becoming a viable option for an expanded global customer base with diverse needs. While not exactly surprised, I’ve been very impressed with the professionalism and creativity of both airlines. We definitely punch above our weight. And getting to lead in an organization that is guided by strong values resonates with me. Be kindhearted, do the right thing, care in everything you do . . . these are strong values that bring a sense of ownership and pride to our work. It’s a powerful motivator. FT: Talk about “The Plan.” What can shippers expect from Alaska Cargo in 2025? What do you see as potential interface and growth for Hawaiian? IM: This is an exciting year for Alaska Air Cargo, and our customers can gear up for more opportunity. By combining our two networks, seamlessly connecting our three key hubs (SEA, ANC and HNL), and investing in SEA as an international hub, customers will have access to a truly global freight carrier this year. Even amidst all the growth and change, customers can still expect the quality, care, enthusiasm and dedication they’re used to receiving from our combined cargo team on every transaction. FT: What drives you most—The joy of winning or fear of losing? IM: It has always been both – one feeds the other. The fear of losing has always pushed me to try and work harder and smarter. The success that brings helps you understand it’s balancing both the fear and the joy of success. . FT: Who do you admire in business and life? Why are you optimistic? IM: I admire my managers over the years. I started in this industry 46 years ago, quite by mistake. My first manager recognized something in me I could never see myself. I am fortunate enough that has been my experience in most cases. I stand on their shoulders and will be forever grateful. I have now come full circle, working again with Jason Berry, who brings out the best in everyone he manages and supports his team 100%. I am optimistic by choice. I believe it’s a decision you make every day you wake up. I have the benefit of 46 years in this business, and it is truly a privilege to be part of this industry. That’s reason enough to be optimistic. FT: What are some measures and perhaps basic rules that air cargo can employ to advance the business? What might be changed or adopted that you admire from other industries? IM: My focus is on continuously creating reasons for our customers to want to do business with us. That can come from investment in infrastructure like IT that positions us well for the future. Perhaps even more important are the investments we’re making in our teams as we bring the cargo operations of Alaska and Hawaiian together. They are our most important investment because they provide the excellent customer service people have come to love. Some wise words I think about often: ‘Look after your team and they will look after the customer.’ FT: Will there always be an airline forwarder partnership as core to our business? What percentage of your business is forwarder driven? What is your view on how that partnership can continue to prosper. IM: There will always be a strong partnership with our forwarding partners – they are invaluable to customers. Over the years, there have been innovative ideas for business development. Our engagement in those conversations will be critical to our growth plans for 2025 and beyond. We will use our excellent customer relationships to continue to hone our direction and ensure that we provide significant value.  FT: What
do you do to relax?IM: Funny enough sometimes work can relax me. The adage is “do what you love, love what you do,” and cargo has given me that over the years. Outside of work, my preferred relaxation methods are hiking, cooking, and travelling to meet friends. FT: What trade shows do you deem important for 2025? IM: We are continuing to review our participation in shows as we emerge as a global carrier. We have committed to AFA/CNS/ACF/Boston seafood show where we look forward to joining our customers in a dialogue on how we can jointly advance the industry. |
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Publisher-Geoffrey Arend • Managing
Editor-Flossie Arend • Editor Emeritus-Richard Malkin |
Send comments and news to geoffrey@aircargonews.com
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