Global air cargo demand shows modest growth in June

Global air cargo demand saw a modest year-on-year increase of 0.8% in June 2025, based on newly released data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). International cargo operations outpaced the overall growth, rising by 1.6%. Cargo capacity expanded as well, up 1.7% globally and 2.8% for international services. The standout performer was the Asia-Pacific region, where airlines posted a remarkable 9.0% surge in cargo demand—leading all global markets. Capacity in the region also saw a robust 7.8% increase during the same period.

Several noteworthy factors shaped the operating landscape for air cargo in June 2025. World industrial production increased by 3.2% year-on-year in May, alongside a 3.5% rise in global goods trade—signaling healthier economic activity. Jet fuel prices were 12% lower than a year earlier, marking the fourth consecutive month of annual declines. However, prices climbed 8.6% compared to May, reflecting short-term volatility. The global manufacturing sector showed signs of recovery, with the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) edging up to 51.2, moving above the neutral threshold. Despite a 1.2-point gain, the PMI for new export orders remained in contraction territory at 49.3, affected by recent shifts in US trade policy.