Trade from Asia improves demand by 4% in April

Cargo load factors in the Middle East increased in April 2026 as airlines operated with tighter capacity, showing stronger utilisation of available cargo space across regional and international networks, according to the latest report from the International Air Transport Association. The increase highlighted the region’s continued role in supporting global cargo flows and maintaining connectivity on major trade routes.

“Air cargo demand grew 4% year-on-year in April, driven by strong Asia-linked trade flows. But this positive news masks a more complex operating environment. Severe disruption at major Gulf hubs due to the war in the Middle East continued to reshape trade routes and constrain capacity on key corridors. With dedicated freighters carrying much of the growth, air cargo is once again keeping supply chains moving amid trade disruptions. The coming months will test how well the sector can absorb continued geopolitical uncertainty and elevated operating costs,” said Willie Walsh.

The report said global air cargo demand rose 4 per cent year-on-year in April, supported by strong Asia-linked trade activity and growing demand for time-sensitive shipments. International cargo traffic also expanded by 4 per cent during the month, with airlines across Asia, Europe, and North America reporting higher cargo volumes.

Middle East-linked trade corridors also showed signs of operational improvement compared to previous months as airlines adjusted networks and routing patterns. The report noted that declines on Europe–Middle East and Middle East–Asia routes eased compared to March, indicating more stable cargo operations across Gulf-linked corridors.

IATA also highlighted the growing importance of dedicated freighter aircraft in supporting cargo movement worldwide. Global freighter traffic increased 7 per cent year-on-year as airlines relied more on dedicated cargo capacity to maintain schedules and improve reliability across long-haul routes.