While the global manufacturing sector faced increased challenges amid uncertainties over tariff disputes, air cargo demand in April was supported by the advance loading of shipments on selected routes and the rerouting of goods to alternative gateways, AAPA noted.
As a result, international air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK), grew by 4.9% year-on-year, slightly outpacing the 4.2% rise in offered freight capacity.
Consequently, the international freight load factor edged 0.4 percentage points higher to 61.5% compared to April last year.
AAPA Director General Subhas Menon commented: “International air cargo demand recorded a 5% increase during the first four months of the year, even as consumers and businesses faced heightened uncertainty due to tariff disputes. This environment contributed to advance purchases and stockpiling activity in anticipation of potential cost increases.
“The growth comes despite mounting macroeconomic headwinds, which contributed to a downward revision of the global GDP growth forecast to 2.8% for the year.
“The trade disputes and softening macroeconomic conditions may signal challenging times for air travel and cargo market in the months ahead. This will place further strain on already thin profit margins in the airline industry.
“Overall, the region’s carriers remain vigilant, actively monitoring market developments and ready to adapt swiftly to evolving conditions.”