Chattanooga, TN [January 23, 2026] — Covenant Logistics Group, Inc. and AAT Carriers, a Covenant Logistics Group Company, announced today that both organizations have been recognized as 2026 TCA Elite Fleet certified carriers by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). The recognition marks a major milestone, with AAT Carriers earning the distinction for the second consecutive year and Covenant Logistics receiving the honor for the first time in company history.
The TCA Elite Fleet program recognizes for-hire truckload carriers that demonstrate excellence in creating driver-focused work environments. Now in its second year, the program uses a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation process that examines key performance indicators including driver satisfaction, turnover, compensation and benefits, equipment quality, operational efficiency, and overall driver experience.
“Being named a TCA Elite Fleet is a meaningful affirmation of the culture we work every day to build,” said Lathen White, Vice President of Retention. “For Covenant, this first-time recognition reflects years of intentional investment in our people and the systems that support them. For AAT Carriers, earning this honor for the second consecutive year speaks to the consistency and high standards their drivers experience every day.”
The recognition reflects a shared commitment across both organizations to prioritizing driver success, safety, and long-term career development.
“Our drivers are at the center of everything we do, and this recognition reinforces the focus we’ve placed on safety, training, and the overall driver experience,” said Joey Ballard, Chief People and Safety Officer. “Receiving this certification for the first time at Covenant, alongside AAT Carriers being recognized again, reflects our commitment to continuous improvement and to creating environments where drivers can build long-term, successful careers.”
To earn TCA Elite Fleet certification, carriers undergo an independent and confidential evaluation that includes surveys of company drivers and independent contractors. Survey results are reviewed and validated by third-party analysts to ensure transparency, credibility, and consistency across all participating fleets.
Certified carriers will be formally recognized at TCA’s 2026 Annual Convention in Orlando, with a special awards program scheduled for Monday, March 2.
About Covenant
Covenant Logistics Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, offers a portfolio of transportation and logistics services to customers throughout the United States. Primary services include asset- based expedited and dedicated truckload capacity, as well as asset-light warehousing, transportation management, and freight brokerage capability. In addition, Transport Enterprise Leasing is an affiliated company providing revenue equipment sales and leasing services to the trucking industry. Covenant's Class A common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol, “CVLG.”
About AAT Carriers
AAT Carriers specializes in secure, high-risk, high-value, and time-sensitive transportation solutions that serve government, defense, and commercial clients. With a nationwide logistics network, elite team-driver capacity, and rigorous operational standards, AAT delivers mission-critical freight with precision and reliability.
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