Air cargo operations continue to influence the global movement of perishables, accommodating the need for speed and product quality retention. Perishable commodities, such as fruits and vegetables, necessitate air freight to maintain freshness across sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) emphasizes the role of air transport within the supply chain to deliver perishables in optimal condition. IATA’s CargoIS platform reported an 8% growth in air-transported fresh produce in 2024. The largest sector was fruit and vegetables, accounting for nearly a third of this market.
Cool goods and meat displayed notable growth, rising by 45% and 21% respectively, in 2024. A key route for fruit and vegetable logistics was Mumbai to London Heathrow, influenced by demand from the UK’s Indian demographic. Domestically, Davao and Manila in the Philippines also experienced notable activity.
Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo, highlighted, “The growth in perishable goods volumes highlights the vital role air travel plays in helping farmers, production companies, and traders get their produce from the farm to the supermarket shelf.”
Despite air cargo accounting for less than 1% of global trade volume, it comprises nearly 35% of trade value. For perishable goods, air freight is indispensable, ensuring modern supply chains remain viable.