Global Air Freight Market: Strong Trans-Pacific Demand, Reduced China-Europe Capacity

Global air cargo data for 2026 7 is out: overall year-over-year growth of 5%, with clear regional divergence.

I. Transpacific Route: Strong Demand

Air cargo demand from China to North America remains strong, driven by shipments of AI servers, semiconductors, and high-value electronics. Some flights are nearing 90% load factors, resulting in tight capacity.

Rising fuel prices have driven up air freight costs, with Asia-to-North America rates increasing year-over-year.

II. Europe-China Route: Capacity Contraction

Since 6, air cargo capacity from China to Europe has contracted by approximately 30%. Freight volumes to Europe remain weak, but rates have stayed relatively stable without significant fluctuations.

3. New DHL Products

DHL introduces a new heavy parcel service capable of handling single shipments up to 6,000 lbs (approximately 2,722 kg), specifically designed for automotive and pharmaceutical clients to fill the gap in air freight for heavy cargo.

IV. Market Outlook

With the peak season for electronics shipments approaching in the second half of the year, trans-Pacific air freight demand is expected to remain high. We recommend customers with urgent air freight needs to book space in advance to avoid cost increases associated with last-minute booking rushes.

FortunaLink Air Shipping covers major airports worldwide, with options for same-day and next-day delivery. Contact us for details.