Global air cargo demand rose for the sixth consecutive month in August, reflecting continued trade recovery and strong performance in emerging markets, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Industry data shows air cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTK), increased 4.1% year-on-year, while available capacity (ACTK) grew 3.7%. The cargo load factor improved slightly to 44.2%, indicating healthy utilization.

Regional Trends

Africa led growth with an 11% rise in demand, followed by Asia-Pacific at 9.8%.

Europe posted a 3.2% gain, while Latin America and the Middle East saw moderate growth.

North America was the only region to decline, with demand down 2.1%.

Trade routes between Europe and Asia and within Asia recorded double-digit growth, while Asia–North America volumes dipped amid shifting trade flows.

Growth was supported by lower jet fuel prices (down 6.4% year-on-year), strong manufacturing activity (PMI at 51.75), and shippers shifting from sea to air due to tariff uncertainty.

Analysts expect 3–4% global air cargo growth for 2025, though softening yields and trade tensions could limit gains.

“A sixth month of steady growth underscores air cargo’s resilience, but profitability remains under pressure,” IATA said.