Global air freight markets finished 2025 with solid momentum, boosted by strong demand in Asia Pacific and Africa even as traditional lanes such as North America lagged behind, according to the latest industry data.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that global air cargo demand rose about 4.3 % year‑on‑year in December 2025, marking one of the strongest monthly performances of the year. Growth was led by international shipments, with carriers in Asia Pacific and Africa among the fastest‑expanding regions.
Asia and Africa Leading the Charge
Asia Pacific airlines recorded a double‑digit rise in international cargo volumes, with growth near 10.7 %, while African carriers posted 10.1 % growth, making both regions standouts in the global market. This contrasts with continued softness in the Americas, where demand remained weak.
Industry analysts say these patterns reflect broader shifts in global trade flows, with supply chain reconfigurations, e‑commerce activity and shifts in manufacturing locations underpinning demand on certain corridors. The strong performance in Asia and Africa also underscores how emerging markets are increasingly shaping air freight dynamics as traditional trade lanes face competition.
Europe‑Asia routes were among the strongest performing trade corridors in 2025, with robust year‑on‑year demand growth, while some traditional routes such as Asia‑North America saw contractions amid wider trade headwinds.
Underlying Market Trends
Available cargo capacity globally increased slightly faster than demand — up about 4.5 % year‑on‑year in December — and the cargo load factor held firm, indicating overall balance between supply and demand. Airlines have been adjusting their networks to capture growth where it is strongest, particularly on Asia‑Europe and Asia‑Middle East lanes.
Demand through bellyhold capacity from passenger flights also continued to play a significant role, contributing strongly to international cargo volumes as airlines restore passenger networks.
Outlook
While growth remains selective rather than uniformly broad‑based, the year‑end data points to a more resilient and rebalanced air freight market entering 2026, shaped by evolving global trade patterns and logistics strategies. Industry observers note that continued demand from Asia and Africa, coupled with strategic carrier adjustments, could help sustain momentum even as challenges persist on some traditional trade lanes.
