Demand
- Â Global air cargo volumes declined by 4% year on year in March 2026 due to disruptions at key Gulf transit hubs.
-  Air cargo demand is expected to grow by 2–3% in 2026, supported by AI, semiconductor, and high‑value electronics trade despite ongoing volatility and cost pressures.
Capacity
- Â Global air cargo capacity decreased by 3% year on year month to date as of 27 April 2026 with the Gulf region experiencing the sharpest decline.
- Â Airlines reduced capacity through flight cancellations and route suspensions due to high jet fuel costs and Middle East disruptions.
Europe
- European air cargo demand declined by 5% year on year in March 2026 compared to February levels.
- Carriers shifted capacity toward European hubs and direct long-haul routings to reduce reliance on Gulf hubs.
- Higher fuel costs increased operating expenses while long haul capacity remained largely stable.
Regional Air Freight News
Europe
- European air cargo demand declined by 5% year on year in March 2026 compared to February levels.
- Carriers shifted capacity toward European hubs and direct long-haul routings to reduce reliance on Gulf hubs.
- Higher fuel costs increased operating expenses while long haul capacity remained largely stable.
Asia
- Asia Pacific air cargo demand fell by 4% year on year in March 2026 while Intra-Asia volumes increased by 7%.
- Capacity on Asia to Europe lanes declined due to Middle East hub closures and higher operating costs.
- Air freight rates reached new highs as carriers applied emergency surcharges amid tight supply.
Middle East and Africa
- Middle East and Africa export volumes dropped by 24% year on year in March 2026 due to airspace closures.
- Gulf carriers continued operating below pre-crisis capacity levels with reduced schedule reliability.
- Limited capacity and longer routings continued to push air freight rates higher despite softer demand.
Americas
- North American air cargo demand remained broadly flat in March 2026 as rerouted flows offset disruptions.
- Latin America recorded 9% year on year export growth supported by increased Asia bound demand.
- Seasonal perishables exports tightened capacity and displaced general cargo on key routes.