Despite political uncertainty and the imposition of tariffs driven by the United States, global air cargo demand performed solidly during 2025, with year-on-year growth of 3.4%, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported .
The agency detailed that the annual capacity measured in available cargo ton-kilometers (ACTK) increased by 3.7% during the previous year compared to 2024.
“The global strength of e-commerce boosted volumes, even as trade relations with the United States faced increased tariffs, the elimination of de minimis tariff exemptions, and continued political uncertainty. Air freight rose to the challenge. It adapted quickly to support global businesses and supply chains as they anticipated product deliveries ahead of tariff impositions and adjusted to increased demand within Asia and between Asia and Europe as US-Asia trade stalled,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
He mentioned that annual yields decreased by 1.5% year-on-year , representing the smallest decline in three years, as a balance between supply and demand was achieved. In this regard, he emphasized that despite competitive pressure limiting air cargo pricing power, yields remained 37.2% above 2019 levels.
Regarding December 2025, IATA stated that global demand was 4.3% higher than the levels of the same month in 2024 , and 5.5% higher for international operations. Global capacity was 4.5% higher year-on-year, and 6.4% higher for international operations.
Willie Walsh predicted that growth in 2026 is expected to moderate slightly to 2.4% , in line with historical trends.
“We can expect demand to continue to be shaped by trade and geopolitical developments. Whatever trade pattern emerges, we can be confident that the reliance on air transport to keep global supply chains running will remain sufficient, with airlines rising to the challenge, deploying capacity, and designing their networks for maximum flexibility,” Walsh said.
Asia-Pacific airlines experienced an 8.4% year-on-year growth in air cargo demand in 2025, the strongest among the regions. Capacity increased 7.4% year-on-year, and by December had risen 9.4%, while capacity saw an 8.3% increase.
In contrast, North American demand fell 1.3% year-on-year , the only regional decline and the weakest performance globally. Capacity decreased 1.1% year-on-year. Year-on-year demand in December fell 2.2%, and capacity fell 2.6%.
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