June 30 (THEWILL) — Global air cargo demand increased by 6 percent in May 2026 despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, highlighting the aviation industry’s resilience amid shifting trade patterns and operational disruptions.
According to the latest data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), total air cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs), rose by 6.0 percent compared with May 2025. International cargo demand grew even faster, recording a 6.5 percent year-on-year increase.
Cargo capacity also expanded during the period, with available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTKs) rising by 1.9 percent globally and 2.8 percent for international operations.
IATA noted that the Middle East was the only major region to record a decline in cargo traffic, as the ongoing conflict involving Iran and broader regional instability continued to disrupt aviation operations. Airlines in the region reported an 8.9 percent contraction in cargo demand compared with the same period last year.
Commenting on the report, IATA Director-General Willie Walsh said the industry had continued to adapt to changing market conditions despite geopolitical headwinds.
“Air cargo demand grew six per cent year-on-year in May, with Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America all reporting above-trend growth. Carriers in the Middle East, however, recorded a combined contraction as war-related disruptions persisted”, he said.
Walsh expressed cautious optimism for the rest of the year, citing improving trade activity, expanding manufacturing output and airlines’ ability to adjust operations to evolving supply chain needs.
The association also reported that global trade expanded by 5 percent year-on-year, marking 25 consecutive months of annual growth, while the Global Manufacturing Output Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 53.5 in May, signalling continued factory expansion.
Although jet fuel prices declined by 16.3 percent from the previous month, IATA noted that fuel costs remained significantly higher than a year ago, underscoring the cost pressures airlines continue to face despite robust cargo demand.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
