FIATA has raised concerns over IATA's decision to modify the liability regime for Direct Air Waybills (DAWBs), warning that the move risks misallocating responsibility in air cargo operations, as reported by New York's Cargo Airports & Airline Services.

FIATA Air Freight Institute chairman Dawit Woubishet stated that DAWBs are widely used when shippers require direct contractual relationships with airlines or when regulatory and financing arrangements demand disclosure of the shipper. He emphasized that DAWBs are integral to modern supply chains and not a deviation from standard practice.

The group argued that liability should follow role, control, and fault, rather than being automatically extended to freight forwarders. Mr. Woubishet noted that forwarders often lack control over cargo content, packing, or hidden dangerous goods, and that responsibility should be assessed based on who creates or manages the risk.

FIATA warned that imposing broader liability on forwarders could undermine insurability, raise costs, and create gaps in protection, especially for small and medium-sized operators. It stated that the framework must remain workable across diverse jurisdictions and business models.

The organization has invoked review mechanisms within IATA, stating that the current proposal risks legal uncertainty and competitive imbalance. It urged for a balanced framework that strengthens safety and accountability while reflecting the operational realities of global trade.