MESA air cargo rises 10–17% amid seasonal slowdowns

Air cargo volumes from the Middle East showed steady growth in mid-February, despite a global slowdown linked to Lunar New Year holidays in Asia. Chargeable weight from the Middle East & South Asia (MESA) peaked in early February, up 17% year-on-year, before softening slightly to +10% YoY in the week of 16–22 February. Traffic from hubs such as Dubai, India, and Bangladesh to Europe and the US remained strong, reflecting continued demand for regional exports.

Spot rates from Middle East origins were generally stable, rising 4% week-on-week to an average of $2.55 per kilo, though still below last year’s elevated levels. Rates from Dubai to Europe saw a sharper increase of 21% week-on-week, driven by robust demand and capacity constraints. Forwarders reported steady shipment flows even as Lunar New Year disruptions limited cargo from Asia, helping Middle Eastern carriers capture more of the global trade during this period.

The ongoing Ramadan season also contributed to sustained air cargo activity, as importers and exporters adjusted schedules to meet market demand. Analysts note that tariff uncertainty, particularly around US-bound shipments, could influence volumes and pricing in the coming weeks, but for now Middle East air cargo remains resilient amid regional and seasonal fluctuations.