December 4, 2025
Global air cargo demand was up 4.1% in October, setting a new record
According to data for October released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) global air demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 4.1% compared to October 2024 levels (+4.8% for international operations).
Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 5.1% compared to October 2024 (+6.4% for international operations).
"Air cargo demand grew 4.1% year-on-year in October, marking the eighth consecutive month of expansion and setting a new monthly record for volumes," said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
"While the Asia-North America trade lane extended its contraction to six months, October saw double-digit or near double-digit growth within Asia, between the Middle East and Europe, and between Europe and Asia. This shifting growth pattern shows that air cargo is enabling global supply chains to adapt to the impact of US tariffs. This positive news is especially significant as the air cargo sector enters the peak fourth quarter shipping season."
Asia-Pacific airlines saw an 8.3% year-on-year growth in air cargo demand in October. Capacity increased by 7.3% year-on-year.
North American carriers saw a 2.7% year-on-year decrease in growth for air cargo in October, the weakest performance among all regions, tied with Latin America. Capacity increased by 0.1% year-on-year.
European carriers saw a 4.3% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in October. Capacity increased 4.3% year-on-year.
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 5.7% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in October. Capacity increased by 10.0% year-on-year.
Latin American carriers saw a 2.7% year-on-year decrease in demand for air cargo in October, the slowest growth of all regions, tied with North America. Capacity increased by 2.8% year-on-year.
African airlines saw a 16.6% year-on-year increase in demand for air cargo in October, the strongest rise of all regions. Capacity increased by 20.0% year-on-year.