Global air cargo rates have surged sharply as the escalating conflict involving Iran disrupts aviation routes and squeezes cargo capacity across key trade corridors linking Asia, Europe and North America.
Industry data show that air freight rates from South Asia to major markets in Europe and the United States have climbed to around $6 per kilogram, reflecting a sharp jump since the start of the conflict. The surge has been driven by airspace restrictions, flight cancellations and reduced operations by major Gulf carriers.
Airlines in the Gulf region play a critical role in global cargo connectivity, serving as major transit hubs between Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas. However, disruptions to flights and cargo operations in the region have significantly reduced available capacity, forcing shippers to compete for limited space on alternative routes.
The impact has been particularly visible on east-west trade lanes that typically rely on hubs in the Middle East for transshipment. With several airlines rerouting flights to avoid conflict zones, longer flight paths and higher fuel consumption have added further cost pressures to air freight operations.
Rising oil prices linked to the conflict have also pushed up jet fuel costs, prompting airlines to introduce higher fuel surcharges. Logistics analysts say these additional charges are feeding into overall freight rates and increasing shipping costs for exporters.
The surge in air cargo prices is affecting industries that depend heavily on rapid logistics, including electronics, pharmaceuticals and high-value manufacturing goods. Exporters in Asia are already reporting higher transportation bills and longer lead times for shipments to Western markets.
Market observers warn that if the conflict continues to disrupt aviation networks in the region, air freight rates could remain elevated in the coming weeks as supply chains adjust to reduced capacity and longer routing options.