June 9, 2024
Air Freight
The world of freight and logistics moves fast. Really fast. In fact, you could say that time flies by in logistics! So we’ve pulled together a logistics roundup, containing the latest air freight news!
Air Freight Recovery
After a slower than expected start following the COVID19 pandemic, air cargo shipments began to rebound in 2023.
December 2023 was an exceptionally strong month for air freight movements, and one of the main causes of the increase in air shipments appears to be the conflict in the Middle East. The situation in the Red Sea has had an obvious impact on maritime trade, with air shipments seeing a spike in bookings; the increase in the use of air continued in the opening months of 2024 too.
Willie Walsh, IATA‘s Director General recently commented: “Despite political and economic challenges, 2023 saw air cargo markets regain lost ground in 2022 after the extraordinary COVID peak in 2021, although full year demand was shy of pre-COVID level by 3.6%. The significant strength in the last quarter is a sign that markets are stabilising towards more normal demand patterns.”
Increased Freight Tonnage
Cathay Pacific
Cathay Pacific recently reported a 7.4% year on year increase in freight tonnage. The airline carried over 117,000 tonnes of cargo in April 2023.
A key driver in the increased volumes were shipments from mainland China and Hong Kong.
Saudia Cargo
Saudia Cargo also reported a strong first quarter in 2024, with a 19% year-on-year increase recorded. Exports from the region have played a significant part in the growth.
The fashion sector saw tonnage increase by an incredible 85% in the period.
Vienna Airport
Continuing the increase in air freight, Vienna Airport has reported a 16% year-on-year increase in freight tonnage for the first quarter of 2024.
An increase in shipments of pharmaceuticals has helped to drive the increases.
New Routes
50 new routes started during May 2024, with Air France, Condor, Delta Air Lines and Icelandair all adding new routes to their schedules. The new routes will open up corridors for passengers and freight alike, with exciting new import and exports opportunities.
So how can we help with your air freight shipping requirements?
Here at AGI we have a huge amount of experience in all modes of transport, including air freight. Whether your shipping needs include air, road, rail, or sea, we’ll have the perfect solution for you! If you would like to find out more, please get in touch. And for all of the latest AGI news, don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook!