Global Air Cargo Demand Shows Mixed Growth Trends in June

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently released data for June 2025, revealing a 0.8% increase in global air cargo demand compared to the same period in 2024. Despite trade disruptions impacting various regions differently, the industry saw a slight growth overall. Notably, North American air cargo traffic declined by 8.3%, while Europe experienced stagnant growth at 0.8%. In contrast, Asia-Pacific reported a significant 9.0% expansion, showcasing resilience in the face of challenges.

Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, emphasized the importance of stability and predictability in supporting international trade. He highlighted the impact of trade tensions on the industry, particularly in North America and Europe, urging governments to simplify trade facilitation processes through digitalization. The data underscored the need for efficient trade practices to mitigate the effects of evolving trade policies and tariffs on global commerce.

Several key factors in the operating environment influenced air cargo demand in June. Global industrial production rose by 3.2% in May, while global goods trade grew by 5%. The price of jet fuel decreased by 12% year-on-year, marking the fourth consecutive monthly decline, though it showed an 8.6% increase from May. Manufacturing activities rebounded globally, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) surpassing the 50-point mark, indicating growth. However, challenges persisted, particularly in new export orders due to recent trade policy shifts in the US.

Regionally, Asia-Pacific airlines led in demand growth with a 9.0% increase in air cargo, supported by a 7.8% rise in capacity. In contrast, North American carriers experienced an 8.3% decline in demand and a 5.1% reduction in capacity. European carriers recorded a modest 0.8% growth in demand, with a 2.6% increase in capacity. Middle Eastern and Latin American carriers faced challenges, with a 3.2% and 3.5% decline in demand, respectively.

Trade lane growth analysis revealed varied performance across major corridors. While air freight volumes increased in trade routes between Europe and Asia, other routes, such as Asia-North America and Africa-Asia, experienced declines. Understanding these trends is crucial for industry stakeholders to navigate changing market dynamics and optimize operational strategies to drive growth and resilience in the air cargo sector.

The data provided by IATA serves as a valuable resource for airlines and industry players to assess market trends, identify opportunities, and address challenges in the evolving global trade landscape. By staying informed and adapting to market dynamics, stakeholders can enhance their competitiveness and contribute to the sustainable growth of the air freight industry.