Every week, CargoForwarder Global’s ‘Spotlight On…’ tells what it’s like to have a career in the air cargo industry by showcasing the experiences and opinions of an individual working in one of its many segments. Getting a shipment from A to B smoothly and without disruption requires diligent supervision and planning. An airline’s cargo agents are its eyes, brain, and interface – liaising with various stakeholders to ensure that shipments are processed efficiently and in compliance with regulations. This week, Quazi Mohammad Jalal Uddin (QU) takes us through his responsibilities and shares his views and advice for those looking to join the industry.
CFG: What is your current function and company? And what are your responsibilities?
QU: I am currently working as a Senior Cargo Agent with Emirates SkyCargo at Dhaka station (DAC). My main responsibilities include handling export and import operations, dangerous goods, and pharma acceptance, claims handling and safety coordination, and ensuring smooth daily operations in compliance with Emirates and IATA standards. I also support administrative and documentation work, assist the team during peak operations, and help in solving any on-spot challenges to maintain service quality and efficiency.
CFG: What does a normal day look like for you?
QU: Honestly, in air cargo, no two days are ever the same. My day starts early with a review of the flight schedule and pending shipments. I check on the export acceptance process, coordinate with the warehouse and ramp teams, and make sure shipments are handled safely and on time. During the day, I often deal with customer queries, system updates, and last-minute operational changes. Every day brings something new to learn – and that’s what I enjoy most.
CFG: How long have you been in the air cargo industry, and what brought you to it?
QU: I’ve been in this industry for over 10 years, all with Emirates SkyCargo. What brought me here was my deep interest in aviation and logistics – I always wanted to understand how global trade moves so precisely through the air. Over the years, I’ve grown to love the rhythm of cargo operations, where teamwork, time, and precision all come together to make things happen.
CFG: What do you enjoy most about your job?
QU: I enjoy the dynamic environment and the teamwork it demands. Every day is a mix of challenges and achievements. Solving operational issues on the spot gives me great satisfaction, and it feels rewarding to be part of an airline that maintains such high standards in safety and service. Also, the trust and support within our team make the work environment truly motivating.
CFG: Where do you see the greatest challenges in our industry?
QU: The main challenges are in meeting the growing demand while maintaining safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The rapid rise of e-commerce, pharma, and time-critical cargo means the industry must continuously adapt through technology and training.
I’m proud that Emirates SkyCargo has always been ahead in this journey – leading in digital transformation, product innovation, and strict safety compliance. The company’s continuous investment in people, systems, and infrastructure sets a strong example of how to face these challenges while maintaining service excellence.
CFG: What advice would you give to people looking to get into the air cargo industry?
QU: My advice would be to start with a strong focus on learning and discipline. Air cargo is not just about moving goods – it’s about responsibility and precision. For training, I’d recommend IATA courses in Dangerous Goods Regulations, Cargo Introductory, and Safety Management Systems. But most importantly, keep your curiosity alive and be ready to work as part of a team – that’s where real experience builds.
CFG: If the air cargo industry were a film/book, what would its title be?
QU: I’d call it “Sharing Culture – Globally.”
Because behind every shipment, there’s a team of people working silently around the clock to connect lives, businesses, and economies – and I’m proud to be a small part of that network.
Thank you very much, Quazi.
If you would like to share your personal air cargo story with our CargoForwarder Global readers, feel free to send your answers to the above questions to cargoforwarderglobal@kopfpilot.at We look forward to shining a spotlight on your job area, views, and experiences.
