Air cargo traffic climbs in April
May 29, 2025
Air freight demand continued its steady climb in April, with global volumes rising by 5.8% year-on-year, according to the latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The figures reflect a solid start to the second quarter, supported by seasonal flows in retail goods, falling jet fuel prices, and a growing availability of cargo capacity, particularly in belly holds.
International traffic saw a slightly stronger improvement of 6.5% over April 2024, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs), while available capacity grew by 6.3% globally and 6.9% on international routes.
“Air cargo demand grew strongly in April, with volumes up 5.8% year-on-year, building on March’s solid performance. Seasonal demand for fashion and consumer goods – front-loading ahead of US tariff changes – and lower jet fuel prices have combined to boost air cargo,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“With available capacity at record levels and yields improving, the outlook for air cargo is encouraging. While April brought good news, stresses in world trade are no secret.
“Shifts in trade policy, particularly in the US, are already reshaping demand and export dynamics. Airlines will need to remain flexible as the situation develops over the coming months.”
The air cargo sector is navigating a mixed macroeconomic picture, with some indicators pointing to improved trading conditions. Global industrial production rose by 3.2% in March, while overall goods trade jumped by 6.5% month-on-month, both supporting increased freight volumes.
Fuel prices also played a part in easing cost pressures. Jet fuel was down 21.2% compared with April last year and slipped 4.1% month-on-month, marking the third consecutive monthly fall.
Despite the recent gains, IATA cautioned that geopolitical tensions and shifts in international trade policy could test the sector’s resilience in the months ahead.
