26.01.2026
From the second week of January, the global air cargo market returned to growth. Volumes increased by 26% week on week, marking a clear rebound after the year-end slowdown of late 2025.
Current traffic levels are already around 5% higher year on year, although they remain about 20% below mid-December peaks. This suggests a gradual normalization rather than an overheated market.
The recovery in demand was accompanied by a partial return of capacity. Available cargo capacity increased by more than 15% week on week, but still remains below year-end highs. At the same time, pricing remained under pressure, with the global average airfreight rate falling to USD 2.46 per kilogram.
Regional overview
The strongest year-on-year growth was recorded in:
- the Middle East and South Asia — +16%,
- Asia-Pacific — +8%,
- North America — +7%.
Asia-Pacific continues to be the main volume driver in absolute terms, particularly on routes to Europe. The Middle East is strengthening its role as a transit hub, supported by growing exports from South Asia.
Sea freight
The gradual return of container shipping through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal remains an important factor for the air cargo market. While volumes on these routes are still well below pre-crisis levels, further recovery in ocean freight could redirect part of the cargo that has shifted to air over the past two years.
Outlook
Early 2026 confirms a key trend: the air cargo market is stabilizing under continued price pressure and careful capacity management. Flexibility, cost control and rapid adaptation to changing supply chain conditions will remain critical for market participants.
