air-cargo

Air Cargo Demand Surges 8% in June as Tech Shipments Drive Growth

Global air cargo demand accelerated in June, with cargo tonne-kilometers climbing 8% year-on-year, outpacing overall trade growth of 5.2%, according to IATA data released Tuesday.

High-value technology products and time-sensitive shipments fueled the expansion. The Middle East network stabilized and North America led regional performance, with international traffic growing 9% annually.

Capacity gains of 4% lagged demand expansion, pushing cargo load factors higher across carriers. African operators reduced available lift, though supply expanded elsewhere.

Jet fuel prices declined 20% month-on-month but remained 45% above prior-year levels. Air cargo yields dipped for the first time in months but stayed well above prior-year levels.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh noted demand growth exceeded capacity globally and in most regions. Manufacturing activity softened slightly while new export orders remained weak. This indicates growth stemmed from specific trade lanes rather than broad-based export recovery. Middle East tensions and U.S. tariff pressures pose ongoing risks.