Air cargo demand increased by 4% in April 2026 compared to last year, as trade by air kept supply chains moving amid disruptions. Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 4.0% compared to April 2025 levels for international operations.  However, capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), fell by 0.4% compared to April 2025 and by 0.9% for international operations. “Air cargo demand grew 4% year-on-year in April, driven by strong Asia-linked trade flows. But this positive news masks a more complex operating environment. Severe disruption at major Gulf hubs due to the war in the Middle East continued to reshape trade routes and constrain capacity on key corridors. With dedicated freighters carrying much of the growth, air cargo is once again keeping supply chains moving amid trade disruptions. The coming months will test how well the sector can absorb continued geopolitical uncertainty and elevated operating costs,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. He added that dedicated freighters are carrying much of the growth, helping air cargo keep supply chains moving amid trade disruptions. "The coming months will test how well the sector can absorb ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and high operating costs," he noted. Global trade fell by 2.1% month-on-month in March, following four consecutive months of growth, showing the vulnerability of trade to geopolitical shocks. Jet fuel prices spiked in April, rising 121.1% year-on-year, alongside a 77.7% increase in crude oil prices. Regionally, Asia-Pacific airlines experienced a 10.5% year-on-year growth in air cargo demand in April, the highest rise among all regions. Capacity increased by 5.3% year-on-year. Middle Eastern carriers were the hardest hit, facing an 18.2% year-on-year drop in air cargo demand in April, the weakest performance among all regions. Capacity declined by 22.9% year-on-year. For more such news and updates, visit CARGOCONNECT.    

Global air cargo rates have begun to stabilise after weeks of sharp increases triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, offering cautious relief to shippers and logistics providers navigating volatile supply chains. According to recent market data from the TAC Index, the overall Baltic Air Freight Index (BAI00) declined by 4.9% in the week ending May 18, signaling the first notable easing in freight prices since conflict-related disruptions tightened global air cargo capacity earlier this year. Despite the weekly correction, rates remain significantly elevated compared to last year, underlining the fragile balance between supply and demand in the air freight sector. The softening trend has been largely attributed to a decline in jet fuel prices during early May. Fuel costs, which account for a substantial share of airline operating expenses, had surged amid fears of prolonged disruption around major Gulf transit corridors. However, easing oil prices and improving market sentiment have reduced immediate pressure on carriers and shippers alike. Freight rates from major Asian export hubs, including Hong Kong, Shanghai, India and South Korea, registered week-on-week declines. Outbound Hong Kong rates fell 2.4%, while Shanghai slipped 1.7%. India-origin air freight rates also eased after experiencing some of the steepest increases during the height of the disruption. Nevertheless, pricing on many trade lanes remains well above year-ago levels due to ongoing capacity constraints and rerouting challenges. Industry analysts note that the recent moderation does not necessarily indicate a return to pre-crisis stability. Earlier this year, Middle East airspace disruptions forced carriers to reroute flights, cut frequencies and absorb higher fuel burn, leading to severe capacity shortages across Asia-Europe and India-Europe corridors. In some cases, spot rates doubled within weeks as demand outpaced available lift. The easing of rates is also being supported by gradual network adjustments and the return of limited capacity into the market. Airlines have started introducing alternative routings and additional freighter services to stabilize operations, although backlogs continue to affect several global gateways. Market observers believe air cargo demand will remain resilient through the second half of 2026, particularly for high-value and time-sensitive shipments such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and e-commerce goods. However, uncertainty surrounding fuel markets, geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions could continue to drive periodic volatility in freight pricing. For logistics providers and shippers, the latest decline in air freight rates may offer temporary cost relief, but the broader market remains highly sensitive to global economic and geopolitical developments. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!  

Global air and travel services provider dnata has expanded its long-standing partnership with Lödige Industries to enhance cargo handling operations at Singapore Changi Airport, reinforcing its commitment to operational efficiency and long-term infrastructure reliability. Under the renewed agreement, Lödige Industries will continue maintaining and upgrading multiple cargo handling systems across dnata’s facilities at Singapore Changi Airport. The scope of work includes the Automatic Cargo Handling System (ACHS), Pallet Cargo Handling System (PCHS), as well as mechanical systems supporting dnata’s cool chain and perishables operations. A key highlight of the collaboration is the continued support for the first material handling system installed by Lödige in Asia in 1979. The system, which has been operational for more than four decades, is now undergoing upgrades aimed at improving long-term performance and supporting rising cargo volumes in Singapore’s fast-growing airfreight market. The partnership reflects dnata’s broader strategy to modernise cargo infrastructure while ensuring uninterrupted service reliability. Singapore remains one of dnata’s most significant cargo hubs globally, with the company’s Changi facilities capable of handling approximately 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually. Industry observers note that investments in automated cargo systems and predictive maintenance are becoming increasingly critical as airports and ground handlers face pressure to improve turnaround efficiency, reduce downtime and support temperature-sensitive cargo flows. The Singapore operation is particularly important for pharmaceutical, perishables and e-commerce shipments moving through Southeast Asia. Lödige Industries has previously supported dnata through several infrastructure enhancement projects at Changi Airport, including upgrades to perishables handling facilities and the implementation of elevating transfer vehicle systems. Beyond Singapore, the two companies have also collaborated on cargo terminal developments and system upgrades in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, London Heathrow and Amsterdam Schiphol airports. The renewed agreement underscores a growing trend in the air cargo sector where operators are prioritising lifecycle extension and technology upgrades over complete system replacement. By modernising existing infrastructure while maintaining operational continuity, dnata aims to strengthen service resilience and prepare for future cargo demand growth across Asia-Pacific. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

CargoWise and American Airlines Cargo have announced a new digital integration that will allow freight forwarders to book cargo capacity directly through the CargoWise platform, taking another step toward automation and efficiency in global air cargo operations. The collaboration enables customers using CargoWise to access American Airlines Cargo’s booking services through a streamlined electronic interface, reducing the need for manual communication and improving speed and accuracy across shipment management processes. The integration is expected to simplify air freight bookings for forwarders managing high shipment volumes while enhancing visibility and operational efficiency throughout the supply chain. By connecting its global network to CargoWise, American Airlines Cargo is expanding digital accessibility for freight forwarders and logistics providers worldwide. Users of the platform can now search schedules, make bookings, and manage shipments within a single workflow, eliminating repetitive data entry and minimising processing delays. The move aligns with the wider air cargo industry trend toward digital transformation and greater adoption of integrated logistics platforms. As demand for real-time shipment visibility and seamless booking capabilities increases, airlines are investing in technologies that support faster, more transparent cargo operations. CargoWise, developed by WiseTech Global, is widely used by freight forwarders and logistics companies to manage international supply chain operations. The platform connects logistics providers, customs authorities, carriers, and warehouses through a unified digital ecosystem. By integrating with CargoWise, American Airlines Cargo gains access to a broad network of freight forwarding customers seeking more automated cargo booking options. American Airlines Cargo transports cargo daily between major cities in the United States, Europe, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Latin America and Asia. Offering a variety of products and handling capabilities across its domestic and international network, the airline supports shipments from life-saving pharmaceuticals to perishables and ecommerce on the world’s largest passenger network, including temperature-controlled capabilities available in more than 180 markets.  “Our seamless integration with CargoWise brings that network directly into customers’ workflows, reducing complexity and making it easier to access capacity and do business with American Airlines Cargo worldwide,” said Roger Samways, Vice President Commercial for American Airlines Cargo. Jorre Cobelens, Vice President – Logistics Data, AI and Connectivity, WiseTech Global, noted, “American Airlines Cargo is one of the pioneers leading the way to remove manual processes as the supply chain moves toward the greater efficiency, accuracy and agility of straight through processing and we are excited to support their digital strategies. Importantly, the direct data connection supports IATA’s ONE Record standard for data sharing.” Industry observers note that airline partnerships with digital logistics platforms are becoming increasingly important as air cargo stakeholders seek greater efficiency, data accuracy, and scalability. Automated booking solutions can help reduce errors associated with manual processes while enabling quicker decision-making in time-sensitive supply chains. As digital adoption accelerates across the supply chain sector, such partnerships are expected to play a key role in shaping the future of air cargo operations. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!  

There is certainly a spike in the demand for biologics, vaccines, other life-saving drugs, and precision medicines, and they have increasingly become central to the ever-evolving healthcare system. Delivering these across different regions is vital to mankind and requires precision and speed that define the ultimate prerequisites for high-value essentials. With the unique “geographical superpower” of Hong Kong, i.e., the access to half the world’s population within five hours flying time, Cathay Cargo is further bolstering the aviation gateway for the GBA and even the international market by incorporating Cathay Fresh and Cathay Pharma through its Cold Chain Logistics expertise. One of the critical pieces of this strategy is the Air Land Fresh Lane, developed in collaboration with Airport Authority Hong Kong. The system allows creating a clear and efficient intermodal pathway, which facilitates the transportation of inbound goods shipped via Hong Kong to the customs-controlled facilities of the mainland using the same air waybill. The importance of this move is considerable. Traditionally, temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical cargo transported to the Greater Bay Area was prone to re-documentation, delayed customs processing, and cargo re-classification. This resulted in higher risks of exposure to non-optimized temperatures. With Cathay Cargo, it will be possible to avoid such disruptions due to the continuous refrigerated handling from the moment the cargo is discharged from the airplane to its ground transportation. The logistics structure includes temperature-controlled dollies for airport ground movements, GPS-tracked temperature-controlled vehicles, thermal loggers, and chain of custody management by one person in an effort to reduce the risks of temperature excursions while in transit. Besides transport, Cathay Cargo's pharma solution package is being touted as a model to be adopted by others within the region for handling pharma cargo in its regulated form. The facility at the Hong Kong International Airport that is used for pharma handling has been certified by the IATA CEIV Pharma Certification Standards. The facility utilizes near real-time monitoring protocols via the use of its Ultra Track program, thus making it possible to undertake proactive actions when thermal drift or any other irregularities occur while moving and handling. This, alongside an extensive network of over 70 approved drug handling facilities worldwide, ensures continuous supply chains that are becoming decentralized and multi-destination. The coincidence is that this is taking place at the same period as the growth of biotech capabilities of the Greater Bay Area. The areas of Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Macau are becoming one of the world’s leading biotech centers in Asia due to investments made in biologics manufacture and therapeutics.   For more such news and updates, follow CARGOCONNECT.

Saudia Cargo has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tibah Airports Operation Company to strengthen air cargo and logistics operations at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport, marking another step in Saudi Arabia’s broader logistics expansion strategy. The agreement was signed during the 20th Steering Committee Meeting for the Activation of the National Aviation Sector Strategy and is aimed at improving cargo handling capabilities, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting export growth from the Madinah region. Under the partnership, both organisations will collaborate on a range of logistics initiatives in coordination with government and regulatory bodies. The cooperation will include workshops, consultation sessions, and knowledge-sharing programmes designed to improve operational processes and identify new business opportunities within the Kingdom’s rapidly growing logistics sector. The agreement combines Saudia Cargo’s international air freight expertise with Madinah Airport’s strategic geographic position, creating opportunities to strengthen regional and international cargo connectivity. The initiative also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme, which seeks to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a leading global logistics hub. As part of the MoU, Saudia Cargo will introduce preferential freight rates aimed at stimulating cargo volumes and export activity from Madinah. In return, Tibah Airports Operation Company will provide incentive programmes to support Saudia Cargo’s operational growth at the airport. The two parties will also focus on enhancing operational performance and customer experience through specialised training initiatives, regular strategic meetings, and the exchange of expertise and operational resources. The collaboration is expected to support the development of innovative logistics solutions tailored to the needs of the air cargo sector in Madinah. Industry observers view the partnership as a strategic move to improve cargo flows and increase the competitiveness of air freight services in western Saudi Arabia. By expanding logistics capabilities at Madinah Airport, the agreement is expected to strengthen the region’s role in international trade while supporting growing demand for efficient air cargo services across the Middle East. The latest MoU further reinforces Saudia Cargo’s ongoing efforts to expand its logistics footprint and enhance Saudi Arabia’s position within global supply chains. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 https://cargoconnect.co.in/ 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) is intensifying its sustainability and cargo safety initiatives as global supply chains increasingly demand greener, more resilient and technology-enabled logistics infrastructure. According to Hactl’s annual Sustainability Report 2025, the company’s latest investments in intelligent cargo screening, autonomous electric vehicles and sustainable terminal operations signal a broader transformation of air cargo handling from a traditional warehouse function into a critical supply chain resilience strategy. At the centre of Hactl’s latest move is the Phase 2 rollout of its intelligent cargo thermal detection system at SuperTerminal 1 in Hong Kong. The enhanced system now scans cargo during acceptance as well as prior to aircraft loading, creating what the company calls a “double layer” of protection against high-risk shipments such as lithium batteries. The technology combines thermal imaging, artificial intelligence, data analytics and fluid mechanics to detect abnormal temperatures in real time and trigger alerts before incidents escalate. For global supply chains, the implications are significant. Lithium battery shipments continue to rise sharply due to booming electric vehicle, electronics and e-commerce sectors. However, battery-related fires remain one of the biggest operational risks in air freight logistics. By investing in predictive monitoring and dedicated storage infrastructure, Hactl aims to reduce disruption risks across the cargo chain while improving reliability for airlines, freight forwarders and shippers. Hactl’s sustainability strategy extends well beyond cargo safety. Under its Green Terminal Programme, the company has committed to reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by more than 50 percent by 2030 against a 2018 baseline. The company has already deployed renewable diesel initiatives, energy-efficient lighting systems, digitalisation projects and terminal-wide waste reduction programmes as part of its decarbonisation roadmap. Automation is also emerging as a major pillar of Hactl’s supply chain strategy. The company recently introduced Autonomous Electric Tractors (AETs) for ramp operations at Hong Kong International Airport. The vehicles, equipped with LiDAR sensors, HD cameras and AI-powered navigation systems, are designed to improve operational efficiency while reducing emissions and labour dependency in airport logistics. Industry analysts note that sustainability in air cargo is no longer limited to carbon reduction alone. Supply chains today require terminals that can simultaneously deliver operational continuity, cargo integrity, digital visibility and regulatory compliance. Hactl’s integrated approach reflects this shift, particularly as pharmaceutical cargo, perishables, lithium batteries and cross-border e-commerce place greater pressure on air logistics infrastructure. The company’s long-term strategy aligns with Hong Kong’s broader ambition to reinforce its position as a leading global air cargo hub amid intensifying regional competition. Investments in multimodal logistics connectivity, automation and green infrastructure are expected to strengthen Hong Kong’s role in Asia-Pacific supply chains over the coming decade. As supply chains become increasingly time-sensitive and sustainability-driven, Hactl’s latest initiatives highlight how cargo terminal operators are evolving into strategic enablers of secure, resilient and environmentally responsible global trade. 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞: https://cargoconnect.co.in/ for latest news!

CMA CGM Group has launched a new Paris–Hanoi freighter service, reinforcing the growing strategic importance of Vietnam in global manufacturing and supply chain networks. The dedicated Boeing 777F operation connects Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport with Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, with a return routing via Navoiy, Uzbekistan, enhancing cargo connectivity between Southeast Asia and Europe. The inaugural flight departed on May 9, marking another step in CMA CGM Air Cargo’s long-haul expansion strategy as shippers increasingly diversify sourcing and production activities beyond China. Vietnam has emerged as a critical export hub for electronics, textiles, footwear, industrial machinery and e-commerce products, driving sustained air cargo demand on Europe-bound trade lanes. The new service is expected to provide supply chain planners and freight forwarders with additional capacity and greater schedule reliability at a time when manufacturers are seeking resilient and multimodal logistics solutions. Industry analysts note that Vietnam’s role in global supply chains has accelerated due to continued foreign direct investment, expanding manufacturing clusters and the rapid growth of cross-border e-commerce. By integrating Hanoi into its freighter network, CMA CGM is also strengthening its end-to-end logistics strategy, combining ocean shipping, air freight and inland transport services under a unified supply chain offering. The move aligns with the group’s broader ambition to become a fully integrated logistics player capable of offering agile transport solutions for high-value and time-sensitive cargo. The routing through Navoiy further highlights the increasing importance of Central Asia as a transit and technical hub connecting Europe and Asia. The Uzbekistan stopover enables operational flexibility while supporting wider regional cargo connectivity. The deployment of the Boeing 777F on the route underscores CMA CGM Air Cargo’s focus on long-range, high-capacity freighter operations. The aircraft is widely used in global air cargo networks for transporting high-volume industrial shipments, electronics and e-commerce cargo efficiently across intercontinental trade lanes. As supply chains continue shifting toward Southeast Asia, the launch of the Paris–Hanoi service positions CMA CGM to capture growing trade flows between European consumption markets and Vietnam’s export-driven manufacturing economy. The added freighter capacity is likely to benefit exporters, logistics providers and multinational manufacturers seeking faster and more resilient cargo connectivity between Asia and Europe. 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭: https://cargoconnect.co.in/ for latest news!  

Emirates SkyCargo strengthened its position in the global air freight market during fiscal year 2025-26, supported by strategic freighter additions, network expansion, and resilient cargo demand across key trade lanes. The cargo division emerged as a major contributor to the Emirates Group’s record financial performance, reflecting the growing importance of air cargo in global supply chains. The Emirates Group reported a record profit before tax of AED 24.4 billion (US$6.6 billion) for FY2025-26, while revenues rose 3% year-on-year to AED 150.5 billion. Emirates airline alone generated AED 130.9 billion in revenue and retained its position as the world’s most profitable airline. Cargo operations played a significant role in this growth trajectory. Emirates SkyCargo transported approximately 2.4 million tonnes of cargo during the fiscal year and generated AED 16.2 billion in revenue, according to regional business reports. The carrier benefited from additional freighter capacity introduced over the past year as it responded to sustained e-commerce demand, pharmaceutical shipments, perishables trade, and manufacturing recovery across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The airline continued investing heavily in fleet and logistics infrastructure to strengthen its cargo capabilities. Emirates Group invested AED 17.9 billion (US$4.9 billion) during FY2025-26 in aircraft, equipment, technology, and facilities to support long-term growth plans. Industry analysts note that the addition of Boeing 777 freighters and leased cargo aircraft enabled Emirates SkyCargo to improve schedule flexibility and capacity deployment across high-demand international routes. The expansion comes at a time when global air cargo markets are stabilising after several years of disruption. Rising cross-border e-commerce volumes and increasing demand for time-sensitive shipments continue to support premium air freight services. Emirates SkyCargo has also expanded specialised logistics offerings for pharmaceuticals, dangerous goods, and temperature-sensitive cargo, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global logistics hub. Despite geopolitical tensions and operational disruptions in the final month of the financial year, Emirates maintained strong cargo and passenger demand. Group Chairman and Chief Executive Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum highlighted the resilience of the company’s business model and its continued investments in innovation, people, and infrastructure. With additional freighters expected to join its fleet over the next few years, Emirates SkyCargo is positioning itself for further expansion as global supply chains increasingly prioritise speed, reliability, and network connectivity.  

Abu Dhabi Airport has strengthened its position in the global air cargo market with the launch of direct freighter services by Thailand-based carrier K-Mile Air, creating the first dedicated air cargo connection between Abu Dhabi and northern Thailand. The new service, which commenced on May 4, will operate five weekly Boeing 767 freighter flights linking Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Chiang Mai International Airport and Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai International Airport. The partnership significantly expands Abu Dhabi’s growing freight network, increasing the emirate’s direct freighter connectivity to 36 destinations worldwide. Industry observers view the move as another milestone in Abu Dhabi’s strategy to establish itself as a leading multimodal logistics and cargo hub connecting Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa. The launch comes amid robust cargo growth across Abu Dhabi Airports’ network. According to recent operational data, overall cargo traffic at the airport operator increased from 1,878 tonnes per day at the beginning of the year to 2,216 tonnes per day during the latest reporting period, marking an 18% rise. Dedicated freighter cargo volumes recorded even sharper growth, surging 119% from 389 tonnes to 851 tonnes daily. Freighter operations now account for 38% of Abu Dhabi Airports’ total cargo throughput, supported by a 42% increase in daily freighter movements. Wide-body freighter operations have also expanded by approximately 55%, reflecting rising long-haul cargo demand and increasing utilisation of Abu Dhabi’s aviation infrastructure. Ahmed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, said the addition of K-Mile Air demonstrates the emirate’s ability to scale cargo operations despite global supply chain volatility. He noted that both Zayed International Airport and Al Ain International Airport are playing an increasingly important role in regional logistics and international trade connectivity. The expansion aligns with Abu Dhabi’s broader economic diversification strategy and complements ongoing investments in logistics infrastructure, free zones, and industrial corridors such as KEZAD. Analysts believe stronger air cargo connectivity with Southeast Asia could enhance trade flows in electronics, perishables, automotive parts, and e-commerce shipments. In the first quarter of 2026, Abu Dhabi Airports handled 171,794 tonnes of cargo, up 4.2% year-on-year, while dedicated freighter cargo at Zayed International Airport rose 11.4% to 58,128 tonnes. Al Ain International Airport also reported a sharp 45.9% increase in cargo volumes, underlining Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a diversified logistics gateway in the Gulf region.