Middle East Air Cargo Carriers See 9.4% Annual Growth in April 2024

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for April 2024 global air cargo markets showing strong annual growth in demand into the second quarter (Q2).

Middle Eastern carriers saw 9.4% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in April. The Middle East–Europe market performed particularly well with 30.1% annual growth, ahead of Middle East-Asia which grew by 10.4% year-on-year. April capacity increased 5.7% year-on-year.

Global demand rose by 11.1% compared to April 2023 levels (11.6% for international operations). This is the fifth consecutive month of double-digit year-on-year growth.

Capacity increased by 7.1% compared to April 2023 (10.2% for international operations).

Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General said: "Air cargo demand started Q2 with a solid 11.1% increase. While many economic uncertainties remain, it appears that the roots of air cargo’s strong performance are deepening.

"In recent months, air cargo demand grew even when the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) was indicating the potential for contraction. With the PMI now indicating growth, the prospects for continued strong demand are even more robust.”

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