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Report Overview
The global air freight market size was volumed at 122.83 MMT in 2025. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.00% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a volume of 381.49 MMT by 2035. Market expansion is being supported by strategic investments and partnerships across the logistics ecosystem. For example, in early 2025, DHL Express partnered with Emirates SkyCargo to expand its global air freight capacity, targeting high-demand trade lanes in Asia and the Middle East. Additionally, increasing freighter conversions and development of regional cargo hubs are further reinforcing long-term market growth.
The industry is witnessing strong and sustained growth, underpinned by the rising demand for fast, reliable logistics solutions in a rapidly evolving global trade environment. E-commerce remains a primary growth catalyst, with approximately 2.77 billion online shoppers globally fueling cross-border transactions. This surge in digital commerce has significantly increased the need for efficient air cargo services, particularly for high-value, time-sensitive goods such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishables.
In line with this air freight market trend, industry performance indicators show positive momentum. According to March 2025 data, global air cargo demand, measured in cargo ton-kilometers (CTK), grew by 4.4% year-on-year, reaching the highest level ever recorded for the month. Concurrently, available cargo capacity (ACTK) rose by 4.3%, reflecting ongoing investments in fleet expansion, freighter conversions, and airport infrastructure.
Technology is playing a critical role in this transformation, reshaping the air freight market dynamics. The integration of AI, IoT, and blockchain is enhancing supply chain visibility, operational efficiency, and cargo security. Additionally, rising global demand for temperature-sensitive products, such as vaccines and fresh produce, is accelerating the need for advanced cold chain logistics.
2025
Base Year
2019-2025
Historical Period
2026-2035
Forecast Period
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According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the air cargo sector has experienced a remarkable surge in demand, with an impressive 18.4% year-on-year growth recorded in January 2024. This significant increase reflects the ongoing recovery and expansion of global trade, driven by factors such as the rise in e-commerce and the need for speedy delivery of goods. The robust growth in air cargo demand has led businesses to rely on air freight for its efficiency and reliability in transporting high-value products, leading to air freight market expansion.
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As per industry reports of 2023, the North America to Asia route accounted for 26.9% of all air cargo movements, highlighting its critical role in global logistics. This route serves as a vital corridor for trade between two of the world's largest economies, facilitating the swift movement of goods ranging from electronics to perishables.
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Furthermore, Hong Kong International Airport processed an impressive 4,199,196 metric tons of freight in 2023, solidifying its position as one of the world's busiest air cargo hubs. The airport's extensive infrastructure and connectivity enable it to handle diverse cargo types efficiently, catering to the increasing demand from global markets. This substantial volume processed at Hong Kong International Airport exemplifies the airport's pivotal role in facilitating international trade and supporting economic growth in the region.
Competitive Landscape
The global market is dominated by major international airlines, integrated logistics providers, and leading freight forwarders. Leading air freight market players are prioritizing the expansion of global networks, fleet modernization, and the integration of advanced digital technologies to optimize efficiency and elevate customer experience.
Key differentiators for air freight companies include automation, real-time tracking, and sustainable aviation initiatives. Fueled by e-commerce growth, increasing demand for expedited shipments, and penetration into emerging markets, companies are forging strategic partnerships, augmenting capacity, and customizing services for high-growth sectors such as pharmaceuticals and electronics. Adapting to regulatory changes and technological innovation remains essential for sustained competitive advantage.
Key Players
Deutsche Post AG
Deutsche Post AG was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Bonn, Germany. The company offers a broad range of services under the DHL, DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain brands-from letter mail and parcel delivery to comprehensive logistics services.
United Parcel Service of America, Inc. (UPS)
Founded in 1907 and headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, UPS is a global logistics leader with extensive air freight operations through UPS Airlines. The company provides time-definite shipping, cargo, and supply chain solutions, serving over 220 countries with a strong focus on efficiency, reliability, and global trade facilitation.
FedEx Corp.
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, FedEx Corp. is one of the largest express transportation companies worldwide. Its FedEx Express division operates a vast air fleet, delivering time-sensitive freight globally. Known for speed and innovation, FedEx continues to drive competitiveness in the air cargo and logistics industry.
The Emirates Group
Founded in 1985 and headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, The Emirates Group operates Emirates SkyCargo, one of the world’s leading air freight divisions. With a modern fleet and expansive global network, it specializes in transporting perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value goods, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global logistics hub.
Other key players in the market include Cargolux International Airlines S.A., Schenker AG, DSV A/S, Nippon Express Co., Ltd., Kuehne+Nagel International AG, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG, Air France-KLM S.A., AirFreight.com, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., CEVA Logistics, DB Schenker, DHL International GmbH, DIMOTRANS Group, GEODIS, Rhenus Group, and Ziegler Group, among others.
Air Freight Market Report Snapshots
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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Key Questions Answered in the Report
In 2025, the air freight market reached an approximate volume of 122.83 MMT.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.00% between 2026 and 2035.
Key strategies driving the air freight market include fleet modernization to improve fuel efficiency, expansion of dedicated cargo networks, adoption of digital freight platforms for real-time tracking, investment in cold chain logistics for pharmaceuticals and perishables, and strategic alliances between airlines and logistics providers to optimize global capacity utilization.
Key trends aiding the market expansion include the high demand for pharmaceuticals and medical equipment and the growing need for oil and mining equipment.
Regions considered in the market are North America, Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.
Based on destination, the market is divided into domestic and international.
The leading end-use sectors in the industry are pharmaceutical, personal care, chemicals, automobile, and fashion, among others.
The key players in the market include Deutsche Post AG, United Parcel Service of America, Inc., FedEx Corp., The Emirates Group, Cargolux International Airlines S.A., Schenker AG, DSV A/S, Nippon Express Co., Ltd., Kuehne+Nagel International AG, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG, Air France-KLM S.A., AirFreight.com, C.H. Robinson Worldwide, Inc., CEVA Logistics, DB Schenker, DHL International GmbH, DIMOTRANS Group, GEODIS, Rhenus Group, and Ziegler Group, among others.
The market is estimated to witness healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a volume of around 381.49 MMT by 2035.
The Asia Pacific region held the largest share of the global market.
The booming e-commerce sector is the key driver of the air freight market.
The key challenges are high operational costs due to volatile fuel prices, stringent environmental regulations, limited cargo capacity during peak seasons, and infrastructure bottlenecks at major airports.
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