According to data for April released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) global air cargo total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers, increased by 5.8% compared to April 2024 levels (+6.5% for international operations).
Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 6.3% compared to April 2024 (+6.9% for international operations).
"Air cargo demand grew strongly in April, with volumes up 5.8% year-on-year, building on March's solid performance. Seasonal demand for fashion and consumer goods -front-loading ahead of US tariff changes- and lower jet fuel prices have combined to boost air cargo. With available capacity at record levels and yields improving, the outlook for air cargo is encouraging. While April brought good news, stresses in world trade are no secret. Shifts in trade policy, particularly in the US, are already reshaping demand and export dynamics. Airlines will need to remain flexible as the situation develops over the coming months," said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
All international routes experienced growth in April, except for Middle East-Europe, Africa-Asia, and intra-European route.
Source: IATA