MESA cargo market picks up by 11% after sluggish October

Air cargo activity in the Middle East and South Asia (MESA) region saw a rebound in early November after a quiet October, according to the latest WorldACD market data. Tonnages from the region rose by 11 per cent week-on-week from 27 October – 2 November, recovering from the slowdown caused by Diwali holidays in India. However, October overall remained flat for MESA, even as other regions recorded strong month-on-month growth.

Despite the pickup in early November, average spot rates from MESA origins dropped sharply by 27 per cent year-on-year, falling from the high levels seen in 2024. The decline reflects a market correction after last year’s capacity shortages and elevated prices.

The wider global market showed stronger momentum, with overall tonnages up by 4 per cent year-on-year and steady growth from Asia Pacific and North America. While MESA’s performance lagged behind other regions in October, the early November rise signals renewed regional movement as post-holiday cargo flows resume.

Industry analysts note that the Middle East continues to play a stabilising role in global air cargo, serving as a transit hub between Asia, Europe, and Africa, even as rates and capacity fluctuate with shifting trade patterns.