With an 11% year-on-year increase in demand, African air cargo in August showed the highest increase compared to the rest of the world’s regions.
African capacity increase 12% compared to the same period last year with worldwide air cargo capacity increasing by 3.7% compared to August 2024.
“Air cargo demand grew 4.1% in August, marking the sixth consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Volumes continue to grow even as global trade patterns change,” says Willie Walsh, International Air Transport Association (IATA) Director General.
According to the IATA the following factors played a role in the growth recorded in air cargo sector:
- The global goods trade grew by 4% year-on-year in July.
- Jet fuel prices in August were 6.4% lower year-on-year, marking the fourteenth consecutive month of year-on-year declines.
- Global manufacturing in August showed rising optimism in manufacturing PMI, with a rebound to 51.75, the strongest reading since June 2024. Sentiment on new export orders, however, remains below 50 at 48.73, reflecting persistent caution amid tariff uncertainty.
“Air cargo has benefitted from a shift from sea for some high value goods as shippers try to minimize the risk of tariff changes. And growth patterns indicate some being diverted away from North America, fueling stronger growth for the Europe–Asia, Within Asia, Africa–Asia, and Middle East–Asia trade lanes. This adaptability is vital as shippers navigate the evolving landscape of US tariff policy,” Walsh added.
The Africa-Asia trade corridor recorded its second consecutive month of growth with a 8.4% year-on-year increase.