The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released global air cargo data for September 2025. According to the report, total cargo demand measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs) increased by 2.9% compared to the same month last year, while capacity grew by 3%.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh stated that shifts in global trade dynamics are reshaping air cargo flows, noting that U.S. tariff policies have led to a slowdown in the North America–Asia market, while strong growth has been recorded in intra-Asia routes and connections between Asia and Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Operational Outlook Strengthens
Key indicators influencing the sector include:
Global goods trade grew by 7% year-on-year in August.
Jet fuel prices rose by 5.4% in September despite a decline in crude oil prices.
The global manufacturing PMI reached 51.3, marking its second consecutive month in growth territory.
The new export orders index remained at 49.6, indicating continued uncertainty.
Route-Based Growth Overview
While some trade corridors saw strong growth, others continued to contract:
Europe–Asia: up 12.4%, marking 31 consecutive months of growth.
Intra-Asia: up 10%.
Middle East–Asia: up 4.6%.
Africa–Asia: up 9.6%.
Meanwhile, the Asia–North America route contracted by 3.5%, marking its fifth consecutive month of decline. The Middle East–Europe and intra-European markets also continued to weaken.
Overall Assessment
Marking its seventh consecutive month of expansion, the global air cargo industry continues to adapt rapidly to evolving trade patterns. IATA’s data highlights the strengthening of Asia-centered logistics networks in particular.
