The State of Air Cargo

As we close the first half of 2026, the air cargo industry yet again breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Not only did the industry have the continuing conflict in Ukraine with the associated impact on the air transport sector to contend with but no one was prepared for the new conflict zone in the gulf that hit the world and our industry with further disruptive forces.

Capacity disappeared, trade lanes closed, fuel prices doubled and rates took off. And yet, the world continued to trade, new supply chains were forged, and new capacity solutions were established.

Demand took a hit in March but steadily recovered and in fact is now once again showing solid 4-6 growth month over month.

Despite higher energy costs and continued high cost of borrowing, consumer and business activity continues to flourish, with e-commerce and AI related spending leading the way.

But what comes next?

China plus one production strategies are in full swing, and an example is that Vietnam has overtaken China in terms of lap top sales to the USA.

And USA plus one consumption strategies are also seeing new trade partnerships being forged.

How will these strategies impact capacity planning? What about rate development and border complexity? Will digital solutions be the answer? Is innovation keeping pace with increasingly sophisticated demand development?

These and many more questions will be addressed at the TIACA Air Cargo forum, October 26-29 at the Miami Beach Convention Centre. Book your seat, join the conversation and help steer the path for industry success.