FW Desk News
FreightWatch.News
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Canada's pivot away from US trade dependency is generating fresh transatlantic air cargo demand, yet forwarders caution that limited airline capacity and seasonal passenger flight reductions may impede growth.
Edmonton International Airport reported EU-bound cargo volumes climbed in 2025 while US shipments declined. The airport projects record European flows throughout 2026, driven by imports of turbine parts, medical diagnostics, and specialized machinery.
Canadian businesses are establishing relationships with distant European markets, a shift that naturally favors airfreight given geographic distance. However, realizing sustained growth requires expanded capacity. Edmonton currently lacks sufficient transatlantic service to and from Europe, prompting airport officials to engage existing carriers and recruit new entrants.
Capacity shortages extend beyond Edmonton. Industry observers note Western Canada faces significant bottlenecks, with substantial regional cargo unable to secure consistent two-way service to European destinations.
More Ports coverage
Carriers announce limited blanks post-Golden Week as Asia capacity concerns mountWest African Port Congestion Intensifies as Trade Volume SurgesIndia scraps vessel licensing requirement to boost maritime operationsFlexport Opens Platform to Automated Freight BookingDP World Moves to Establish US Container Operations After Two DecadesRail Bottlenecks in China Redirect South Korea-Russia Container Traffic to Ocean RoutesAll Ports news →