Today's Edition
PARIS (AFP)
Airlines transported a record amount of cargo in 2024, lifted by online commerce, though the outlook for this year is clouded by fears of a trade war, the main airline association said Wednesday.
Air cargo volumes rose 11.3 per cent last year, taking them back above a previous record yield set in 2021 before Covid put many economies into a tailspin, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said.
"Air cargo was the standout performer in 2024 with airlines moving more air cargo than ever before," said Willie Walsh, IATA's director general.
"Demand was boosted by particularly strong e-commerce and various ocean shipping restrictions."
Air freight growth, measured by cargo tonne-kilometres, is expected to slow to 5.8 per cent in 2025, and Walsh warned that US President Trump's threats to impose tariffs could slow growth even more.
"The air cargo industry will be challenged to adapt to unfolding geopolitical shifts," Walsh said.
"The first week of the Trump administration demonstrated its strong interest in using tariffs as a policy tool that could bring a double whammy for air cargo - boosting inflation and deflating trade."
IATA groups some 340 airlines, representing more than 80 per cent of air travel.
While air freight represents less than one per cent of merchandise transport by volume, it accounts for about a third by value, according to the International Civil Aviation Organization -- primarily high-value electronics, pharmaceuticals and fresh produce.
