Air cargo rates may be nearing a period of stabilisation following a sharp spike in April, according to market intelligence firm Xeneta. The surge was driven by strong demand, capacity constraints, and ongoing disruptions across key trade lanes, which pushed freight prices higher during the month.
However, early indicators suggest that the worst of the price escalation could be over, with rates beginning to level off as market conditions gradually adjust. Improved capacity availability and a potential easing in demand pressures are expected to contribute to a more balanced pricing environment in the coming weeks.
Xeneta noted that while volatility may persist due to geopolitical tensions and supply chain uncertainties, the pace of rate increases is likely to slow. Shippers and forwarders are expected to benefit from more predictable pricing, allowing for better planning and cost management.
The outlook points to cautious optimism in the air cargo market, with stakeholders closely monitoring trends to assess whether the stabilisation will hold through the coming months.