If the global economy were a precision machine, air cargo would be its indispensable gear, maintaining the smooth operation of international trade. In 2025, this machine accelerated once again as worldwide air cargo demand achieved significant growth, reaching historic levels.
Data reveals that global air cargo demand increased by 3.4% year-over-year , with cross-border transportation performing even more strongly at 4.2% growth . Capacity saw an overall increase of 3.7% , with international routes expanding by 5.1% , providing robust support for annual growth.
December's performance was particularly noteworthy, with global cargo demand rising 4.3% compared to the same period in 2024, while international shipments grew 5.5% . Capacity increases of 4.5% (global) and 6.4% (international) respectively provided a strong finish to 2025.
Looking ahead to 2026, analysts anticipate global air cargo growth will moderate, returning to the long-term average of approximately 2.4% . The evolving landscape of international trade and complex geopolitical dynamics are expected to continue significantly influencing the air cargo market.
Despite external uncertainties, air cargo's critical role in global supply chains remains unchanged. Airlines are proactively implementing measures to address market challenges, including flexible capacity management and optimized route networks, to enhance adaptability and ensure stable, efficient global trade operations.