ME air cargo up 15% YoY as global volumes rise 5%

Global air cargo volumes are rebounding strongly as 2026 gets underway, with worldwide tonnages up around 5% compared to last year. Most regions saw week-on-week growth in mid-January, except the Middle East and South Asia (MESA), which recorded a small dip of 1%. Despite this short-term drop, MESA remains up 15% year-on-year, showing continued recovery from last year’s levels.

The early weeks of 2026 show growing demand for air cargo from the Middle East, especially in pharmaceuticals, perishables, and e-commerce goods, highlighting the region’s strategic role in connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. Air cargo operators in MESA continue to support global supply chains by maintaining capacity and reliable transport links, even as rates remain below last year’s peak levels.

Spot and contract rates are stabilising globally, with worldwide rates around $2.41 per kilo. While Asia-Pacific origins are seeing some price recovery, rates from MESA remain 19% below their high levels from this time last year. Overall, the Middle East continues to play a key role in global logistics, acting as a hub for both regional and intercontinental cargo flows, even as demand fluctuates week to week. Strong year-on-year growth shows the region’s resilience and importance in global supply chains.