Global Air Cargo Demand Falls 4.8 Percent in March
The Middle East bore the sharpest regional blow, recording a staggering 54.3% year-on-year cargo decline in March — the worst performance of any region worldwide.
Compounding the pressure, jet fuel costs surged dramatically, doubling on an annual basis with a 106.6% price spike. Crude oil prices climbed 43.1% over the same period, while refining margins exploded by 320%.
Despite the turbulence, IATA signaled cautious optimism over the broader trade environment. "The underlying demand trends, at this point, appear strong and the recent World Trade Organization and International Monetary Fund revisions to trade and GDP projections continue to see growth in 2026," the association said in a press release.
IATA also acknowledged that cargo networks have demonstrated critical adaptability, noting that air freight infrastructure is delivering the operational flexibility necessary to keep global supply chains functioning amid mounting geopolitical, tariff-related, and logistical pressures.
However, energy costs remain a looming threat to industry stability. "All eyes are on fuel supply and price, which are expected to test the industry's resilience in the coming months," said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
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