Airfreight Insights

The military escalation in the Middle East has significantly impacted the global airfreight industry, which is still facing widespread airspace closures, reduced capacities and soaring jet fuel prices.

One of the key takeaways of the past weeks is “expect the unexpected”, as the current situation remains highly volatile and fluid.

Our current market analysis

• Middle Eastern airlines continue to rebuild their flight schedules by adding further frequencies to their network. Currently, the three major airlines – Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways – are operating at approximately 80% of their pre-war flights, according to Flightradar24. This index compares the average daily number of flights before the war to the number of daily flights currently operated.

• As a security measure, some Middle Eastern airlines are required to carry extra fuel on long-haul flights to and from Asia. This will enable them to safely divert to alternative airports if necessary.

• One of these airlines carries extra fuel for an additional 30 minutes of flight time. This reduces aircraft payloads and results in less available air cargo capacity.

• The high cost of jet fuel continues to be a major challenge for the aviation industry. Despite a price decrease over the past weeks (compared to the absolute peak in April), jet fuel prices remain at a very high level, with a year-on-year increase of 63%.

• Globally, low-value e-commerce shipments from China continue to dominate the air freight market due to their enormous volumes.

• It remains to be seen whether demand will drop once the EU has implemented its announced fixed customs duty of €3 on small parcels valued at less than €150 entering the EU. This regulatory measure is set to become effective on July 1.

• In addition to e-commerce, demand for AI-infrastructure-related shipments and semiconductors remains very strong on the trade lane from Asia to the USA, continuing to drive volumes.

   

Current market assessment from June 15, 2026:

Current Key Takeaways

Practical Recommendations for Customers

• Book time-sensitive shipments in advance to secure space.

• Rail Solutions: Rail transport via the Iron Silk Road is a viable alternative for LCL and FCL cargo from Asia (China, South Korea, Vietnam, and Japan) to Europe. Although there is a backlog at the CN/KZ border, transit times remain competitive, though they vary depending on type of train and routing. However, due to high demand – which is also increasing Eastbound – rates are increasing and available capacity is very tight. We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your allocation.

• Stay alert to disruptions and tariff changes

• Forward planning and flexibility remain key.

Your cargo-partner representative is ready to help you navigate the current situation, assess the potential impacts on your supply chain, and secure the best transport solution for your shipments.

cargo-partner Consolidation Services:

• Competitive pricing

• Secured space on weekly flights

• Pre-carriage and on-carriage services

• Comprehensive customs clearance services

• First and Last-Mile solutions with extensive local network

• Supervision by local offices at origin and destination

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