Global air cargo demand declined in March 2026 as geopolitical tensions disrupted key logistics hubs, according to the International Air Transport Association.
Cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTK), dropped 4.8% year-on-year, while international demand fell 5.5%. Capacity also decreased by 4.7%, with international capacity down 6.8%.
The decline was largely attributed to severe disruptions at major Gulf transit hubs caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict, alongside the seasonal slowdown following the Lunar New Year period.
Despite the overall downturn, regional performance showed mixed trends. Asia-Pacific airlines recorded a 5.4% increase in demand, while European carriers saw a 2.2% rise. African airlines posted the strongest growth at 7%. In contrast, Middle Eastern carriers experienced a sharp 54.3% decline in demand, the weakest performance globally.
North American airlines saw a modest 1.2% drop in demand, reflecting relatively stable but cautious market conditions.
Industry experts noted that while short-term disruptions have impacted performance, underlying global trade demand remains resilient. However, fuel supply constraints and rising costs are expected to pose further challenges in the coming months.
