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African Airfreight Surge Driven by Ocean Shipping Disruptions in Middle East

Airfreight volumes across Africa are accelerating as ocean shipping disruptions in the Middle East force shippers to seek alternative transport solutions. DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa CEO Hennie Heymans said airfreight and express services have become the only viable options to maintain cargo flow during the seafreight crisis. The logistics provider is capitalizing on the shift with its new Heavy Weight Express service, which accepts shipments up to 3,000 kilograms with individual pieces reaching 1,000 kilograms. The offering targets automotive, energy, engineering, machinery, and pharmaceutical sectors. Industry observers caution the airfreight surge may prove temporary, questioning whether disrupted ocean routes will generate lasting structural changes in African freight patterns once Middle East shipping normalizes.