SBA's Freight Market Update: February 12, 2026
This week: Flights to Cuba are being disrupted; Cross-border trade tensions are rising; A major terminal upgrade is underway in Mexico.
Current Critical Industry Trends
Flights to Cuba are being disrupted. Air Canada and WestJet are suspending or winding down service due to unreliable jet fuel supplies, with remaining flights relying on extra fuel loads or technical stops. The changes add cost and are likely to shift cargo through transshipment hubs such as Miami.
Cross-border trade tensions are rising. President Trump threatened to block the opening of the Canadian-funded Gordie Howe International Bridge, a key U.S.–Canada freight corridor, unless ownership terms are renegotiated. Any delay could disrupt future capacity at North America’s busiest trade crossing.
Ocean
Service coverage into West Africa is being enhanced. CMA CGM has reconfigured its WAX network into three loops, adding two new services to support growing demand and improve connectivity from Asia. The changes aim to deliver more consistent schedules and expanded regional access.
Ports
A major terminal upgrade is underway in Mexico. Hutchison Ports ICAVE is expanding its Veracruz facility with a new berth, additional cranes, and upgraded infrastructure. Once complete, the terminal will be able to handle three deep-draught vessels simultaneously, improving efficiency and throughput.
International
U.S. transborder freight slipped in November. Total trade with Canada and Mexico fell 4.7 per cent year-over-year to US$124.8 billion, driven by a 13.1 per cent drop with Canada, while U.S.–Mexico freight rose 2.9 per cent. Trucking remained dominant, moving US$83.7 billion in goods.
Paper export manifests are ending. Under CBP’s new rule, carriers must file electronic export data 24 hours before loading, with final details due two hours prior, allowing earlier risk assessment and avoiding costly returns. The shift also promises faster CBP processing and improved cargo security.
Trucking
Forestry logistics is embracing automation. Trials in Quebec’s harsh winter conditions showed autonomous trucks can safely and efficiently manage loaded and empty runs on unpaved, variable terrain. The project sets a foundation for broader adoption in remote forestry transport.
Rail
CSX invests $670M in fleet upgrade. A new agreement with Wabtec will deliver updated locomotives and rebuilds designed to improve efficiency and extend asset life. The move aligns with industry-wide efforts to boost reliability and control operating costs.
Air
Avianca cargo scales operations for Valentine’s surge. U.S. bound flower volumes climbed 6% year on year as the airline boosted freighter capacity and staffing. Miami and Los Angeles handled the bulk of nearly 320 seasonal flights.
Technology
Flexible infrastructure gains ground in logistics. Container-based units allow capacity and intelligence to move with freight instead of remaining tied to fixed facilities. Operators are using modular buildouts to improve agility and reduce disruption risk.
Other
Accessibility trends lift Heathrow assistance volumes. A 110% surge in assistance dog arrivals since 2021 has pushed annual throughput to 1,800. Heathrow is strengthening operational controls to support safe and compliant travel.
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As always, SBA’s team is here to help. Our expert teams are ready to answer any questions you may have or give advice for managing the current logistics environment. Additionally, if you need help moving freight or gaining visibility and control over your supply chain, we’d happily discuss what SBA can do for you. Contact us!