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Global Air Cargo Demand Sees 2.2% Increase Despite Ongoing Trade Disruptions

Global Air Cargo Demand Sees 2.2% Increase Despite Ongoing Trade Disruptions

James Miller, GetTransfer.com
by 
James Miller, GetTransfer.com
3 minutes read
News
Iyul 07, 2025

Overview of Air Cargo Demand in May 2025

In May 2025, the air cargo sector exhibited remarkable resilience, recording a 2.2% increase in global demand compared to the same month in the previous year. This uptick was notably supported by a 3.0% rise in international operations, providing a glimmer of hope within a landscape marked by shifting trade dynamics.

Demand and Capacity Insights

The total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), showed encouraging growth, while overall capacity, indicated by available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), also saw an increase of 2.0%. Here are the primary metrics:

  • Total Demand (CTK): Increased by 2.2% compared to May 2024.
  • International Operations: Witnessed a 3.0% growth.
  • Capacity (ACTK): Grew by 2.0% year-on-year.

Market Resilience Amid Trade Turbulence

Willie Walsh, the Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), noted that despite a significant 10.7% decline in the Asia to North America trade lane arising from evolving U.S. trade policies, the air cargo sector maintained its ability to adapt. It has effectively supported shippers in optimizing their supply chain demands, including re-routing and timing deliveries.

Factors Impacting Air Cargo Performance

Understanding the broader context surrounding air cargo can be critical for stakeholders in tourism who rely on these logistics for transportation of goods. Several elements influenced the performance of this sector:

  • Industrial Production: Global industrial production rose by 2.6% in April 2025, with air cargo volumes outperforming the growth of global goods trade, which was recorded at 3.8%.
  • Jet Fuel Prices: Jet fuel prices dipped by 18.8% year-on-year, offering a slight reprieve for operators.
  • Manufacturing Trends: Although manufacturing did contract with a PMI of 49.1, new export orders remained within negative territory, reflecting challenges from recent trade policy changes.

Regional Performance

Different regions displayed varying levels of growth, which can impact the tourist experience based on cargo availability:

Region Demand Growth (%) Capacity Growth (%)
Asia-Pacific 8.3% 5.7%
North America -5.8% -3.2%
Europe 1.6% 1.5%
Middle East 3.6% 4.2%
Latin America 3.1% 3.5%
Africa -2.1% 2.7%

Trade Lane Adjustments

The Asia-North America route faced significant adjustments, notably influenced by preemptive shipments prior to tariffs being imposed. As a result, it witnessed a year-on-year decline of 10.7%, showcasing the profound effect of trade policies on logistics. In contrast, other lanes such as Europe-Asia saw growth of 13.4%, continuing a streak of consecutive months of increases.

Key Takeaways

The air cargo industry is currently navigating both challenges and opportunities in its path forward. While statistical insights provide a framework for understanding shifts in demand, the invaluable quality of personal experience cannot be understated. By selecting services that prioritize transparency and convenience, travelers can enhance their overall experiences when exploring destinations.

Enhancing your journeys with reliable partners is crucial. GetExperience.com connects travelers to verified providers offering a diverse selection of tours, ensuring convenience and affordability. Whether it’s the thrill of luxury yacht charters or engaging in immersive cultural workshops, exploring available options on the platform can bring joy to everyone’s travel adventure. Book now on GetExperience.com.

Conclusion

In summary, the air cargo sector’s demand growth amid trade disruptions speaks to its adaptability and significance within the tourism framework. Understanding these trends aids travelers and industry players alike in navigating logistical aspects that underpin enriching travel experiences. Moving forward, focusing on cost-effective choices—such as safari tours or museum tours with live guides—can optimize travel plans, significantly enhancing adventure activities while promoting a seamless journey.