Airfreight Insights
Get the latest update on the global airfreight industry, current trade and rate developments, and the flexible solutions offered by cargo-partner to address ongoing challenges.
- There is enormous demand for air freight charters for aluminum imports from Europe to the USA due to a fire at a major aluminum plant on the US East Coast. This plant supplies all major automakers (Ford, Toyota, Nissan, etc.), and the production shutdown has significantly impacted these companies. As a result, several charter flights are currently transporting large steel coils to the USA.
- Air cargo demand grew by 4.1% year-on-year in October, reaching a new all-time high and marking the eighth consecutive month of volume expansion.
- According to IATA’s latest analysis, global air cargo volumes are expected to increase by 2.4% year-on-year in 2026.
Current market assessment from December 17, 2025:
Legend: traffic lights showing current status, arrow indicates possible development of transport rates.
Current Key Takeaways
Short-Term Outlook (Next 6-12 Weeks)
- Europe → Asia: Demand remains steady due to inventory replenishment, but rates are still very low due to an excess of available cargo space.
- Asia → Europe: Volumes and yields are currently at their peak. However, the market is expected to cool down after the Christmas period.
- Europe → North America: Capacity is reduced due to strong demand for urgent steel coil imports into the US for the automotive industry.
Practical Recommendations for Customers
- Book early for cargo of Asian origin. Space is tightening, especially for e-commerce and express freight. Early bookings secure better rates and routing options.
- Use a diverse procurement strategy
- Consider multi-modal options if beneficial (Sea-Air, Rail)
- Plan for weather-related delays. Allow extra time for shipments through northern hubs, where winter conditions may cause disruptions.
- Coordinate and share shipment forecasts early with your forwarder to ensure secured lift and capacity prioritization.
cargo-partner Solutions & Products:
- When every second counts: EMERGENCY Air Cargo solutions (click for more)
- Our Speed Service Levels – the choice is yours! (click for PDF)
- Weekly consolidation services from VIE/CEE to the USA (click for PDF)
- Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) solutions (click for PDF)
- Weekly Charter Flights: Hong Kong – Eastern Europe (click for PDF)
cargo-partner Key Gateways
- Dual gateway VIE/BUD to cover the Central and Eastern European region
- Coverage of China by our gateways in South, Central and North China
- Our gateways offer extensive connectivity and advanced infrastructure
- Dedicated gateway teams in Europe and Asia ensure streamlined operations
- Benefit from regular consolidation programs with competitive pricing
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