Global Air Cargo Demand Increases 2.9% in September, Marking Continued Growth
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported a 2.9% year-on-year increase in global air cargo demand in September 2025, based on cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK). International operations grew by 3.2% during the same period. Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), rose by 3.0% year-on-year (+4.4% for international operations).
Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said: “Air cargo demand rose again in September, reflecting ongoing adjustments in global trade patterns as U.S. tariff policies take effect. While demand between North America and Asia has declined in recent months, growth within Asia and on routes connecting Asia to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East has helped offset these changes. The industry continues to adapt to shifting trade flows.”
Market Environment:
Global goods trade increased by 7% year-on-year in August.
Jet fuel prices rose by 5.4% in September, influenced by tighter diesel markets.
Global manufacturing activity improved, with the PMI reaching 51.3 in September. New export orders rose slightly to 49.6, though still below the expansion threshold.
Regional Performance (September 2025):
Africa: Demand up 14.7%; capacity up 7.4%.
Asia-Pacific: Demand up 6.8%; capacity up 4.8%.
Europe: Demand up 2.5%; capacity up 4.4%.
Middle East: Demand up 0.6%; capacity up 5.5%.
Latin America: Demand down 2.2%; capacity up 3.1%.
North America: Demand down 1.2%; capacity down 1.5%.
Trade Lane Highlights:
Europe–Asia and Within Asia showed the strongest growth, up 12.4% and 10.0% respectively.
Africa–Asia increased by 9.6%, and Middle East–Asia rose 4.6%.
North America–Europe gained 2.6%.
Declines were seen on Asia–North America (-3.5%), Middle East–Europe (-4.6%), and Within Europe (-1.1%) routes.
Overall, the data indicate a steady expansion of global air cargo activity, with regional differences reflecting evolving trade flows and economic conditions.
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