Ports

AI Infrastructure Demand Threatens Sharp Airfreight Rate Spike as Hyperscalers Scramble for Peak Capacity

Artificial intelligence infrastructure shippers racing to secure peak-season airfreight capacity risk driving rates significantly higher as demand for servers, semiconductors, and data centre equipment strains already-tight markets. While ecommerce shippers and major product launches have locked in space, some hyperscalers had yet to book their space ahead of the busy season. The TAC Global Baltic Air Freight Index fell 2.1% in the week ending October 12, though spot rates from Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Korea climbed. US air freight imports by weight hit record levels in August, up 20% year-on-year and 42% above the 2023 average, according to seasonal-adjusted Census Bureau data. Computer parts including GPUs added 12,932 tonnes compared with last year, while memory components contributed 11,111 tonnes. Electrical equipment and cables also drove significant demand.