Asia Pacific airlines experienced a 3.5% rise in air cargo demand, driven by frontloading ahead of tariff hikes, according to Air Cargo News.
Asia Pacific airlines recorded a 3.5 per cent rise in air cargo demand last year, supported by frontloading ahead of tariff hikes, reported London's Air Cargo News.
Preliminary figures from the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines showed that demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres, increased as carriers responded swiftly to shifting trade flows. Global air cargo demand rose 3.4 per cent year on year, according to IATA.
Cargo revenue for Asia Pacific airlines climbed 1.4 per cent to US$23.6 billion; however, weaker freight rates pushed yields down 2 per cent to 32.1 US cents per FTK. Carriers faced higher costs for staff, leasing, maintenance, and airport charges, though fuel expenditure fell as global jet fuel prices declined.
AAPA director general Wong Hong stated that Asia Pacific airlines entered 2025 from a position of strength, with robust passenger and cargo demand supporting profitable growth. He noted that easing fuel prices provided relief, but persistent supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures drove non-fuel costs higher.
Commenting on the current environment, he mentioned that airlines continue to face conflict in the Middle East and volatile jet fuel prices. He warned that fuel expenditure, the largest single operating cost, is expected to rise this year.
