IATA cuts 2026 cargo growth forecast

Global air cargo volumes are now expected to rise just 0.2 per cent this year after disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict forced a downward revision, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

This makes interesting reading for the U-Freight Group, with our strong presence in the expedited international airfreight business.

IATA said volumes will reach 71.7 million tonnes in 2026, compared with its March forecast of 2.6 per cent growth measured in cargo tonne kilometres. Demand fell 4.8 per cent year-on-year in March but rebounded 4 per cent in April, though capacity remained constrained at Gulf hubs.

Cargo revenue is forecast to climb to USD162 billion in 2026, up 7.2 per cent from USD151 billion last year, driven by airlines recouping higher fuel costs. Yields are expected to grow 6.5 per cent after three years of decline.

IATA said disruptions at Middle Eastern hubs have created opportunities for Asia-based carriers, particularly on Europe-Asia lanes. But tighter customs rules in Europe may weigh on e-commerce volumes, while Latin American markets could soften gradually.

Cargo markets in the Middle East remain under pressure, with reduced effective capacity and traffic reallocation affecting financial performance. IATA said recovery will depend more on pricing than a rapid return of volumes.

For more information about the U-Freight Group’s global air freight forwarding and logistics services, or our e-commerce logistics operations, please visit the relevant pages of this website or contact your local office, details of which can be seen here: https://ufreight.com/locations