Air Cargo. Photo: BusinessDay
Global air cargo demand recorded a six per cent increase in May 2026 despite the lingering impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, a development that underscores the resilience of the aviation industry amid shifting trade patterns and operational challenges.
The latest data released by the International Air Transport Association on Monday showed that total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres, grew by 6.0 per cent compared to the corresponding period in 2025. International operations performed even better, recording a 6.5 per cent increase.
The report also revealed that cargo capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres, rose by 1.9 per cent year-on-year, while international capacity increased by 2.8 per cent.
The performance comes at a time when global supply chains continue to adjust to conflicts, inflationary pressures and fluctuating fuel prices, with airlines increasingly relying on cargo operations to sustain revenues and facilitate international trade.
