What enables an air cargo giant to achieve double-digit profit growth in a fiercely competitive market? The answer lies in Lufthansa Cargo's recently released second-quarter financial report, which not only demonstrates robust profitability but also reveals ambitious plans for market expansion.
Soaring Profits: The E-commerce Driven Growth Story
Lufthansa Cargo delivered stellar results for Q2 2025: revenues grew 3% year-over-year to €820 million, while adjusted EBIT skyrocketed by 103% to €73 million. Despite pressure from U.S. tariffs, the company maintained strong baseline yields, demonstrating remarkable profit resilience.
Cargo volume grew by an impressive 8%, with load factors improving to 62.9% (up 2.1 percentage points). These figures all point to one primary growth driver: the booming e-commerce sector.
Lufthansa Cargo has adeptly capitalized on this market opportunity, transforming it into tangible profit growth—a result of deliberate strategic planning rather than chance.
Diversified Portfolio: Building a Powerful Logistics Ecosystem
Rather than operating in isolation, Lufthansa Cargo has constructed a comprehensive logistics ecosystem. As part of the Lufthansa Logistics business segment, it encompasses several specialized subsidiaries:
• Jettainer (air cargo container management)
• time:matters (express cargo specialists)
• Heyworld (e-commerce logistics solutions)
• CB Customs Broker (customs clearance expertise)
• 50% stake in cargo airline AeroLogic
This diversified business model enables Lufthansa Cargo to offer end-to-end logistics solutions, giving it a competitive edge in the market.
Strategic Expansion: Targeting European Market Leadership
Lufthansa understands that stagnation means regression. While consolidating existing strengths, it actively pursues new growth opportunities. The addition of Katowice, Poland as a new destination demonstrates Lufthansa Cargo's commitment to "strengthening its position in the European cargo market."
This move expands service coverage while enhancing European competitiveness. As a major industrial hub and transportation center, Katowice presents fresh business growth potential.
ITA Airways Integration: Expanding High-Growth Verticals
Following Lufthansa Group's acquisition of ITA Airways earlier this year, the cargo division has rapidly incorporated ITA's freight capabilities—particularly in high-growth sectors like e-commerce and semiconductors.
Since June, Lufthansa Cargo has been marketing ITA's cargo capacity on routes from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires to Rome. By establishing Rome as a Southern European cargo hub, Lufthansa has expanded its global network with additional routes, capacity, and destinations. The company plans gradual expansion of belly-hold capacity marketing across all ITA's European and intercontinental routes.
This integration enhances both network coverage and service capabilities, better meeting customer demands.
Future Outlook: Sustained Growth Confidence
Lufthansa expresses strong confidence in future prospects. Reviewing H1 2025 results, the company noted a 6% increase in cargo capacity compared to last year, driven by additional Boeing 777F aircraft in late 2024 and expanded passenger operations with corresponding belly-hold capacity.
The company stated in its Q2 interim management report: "In the Logistics business segment, the positive operational and financial development evident in late 2024 continued into H1 2025. This growth stems from robust Asian e-commerce business and generally strong market demand—reflected particularly in increased freight volumes and moderately growing yields."
These indicators suggest Lufthansa Cargo will maintain strong growth momentum and strengthen its competitive position. The company stands ready to embrace an even more successful future.
Lufthansa Cargo's success reflects strategic planning, diversified operations, and acute market awareness. More than an air cargo carrier, it operates as a comprehensive logistics service provider with a powerful ecosystem. Amid e-commerce expansion, Lufthansa Cargo leads industry development through operational excellence.