Matson Logistics expects more shippers to switch from air to ocean freight as jet fuel costs remain high, reports London's Air Cargo News.

The company noted that it observed continued air-to-ocean conversions in the first quarter of 2026 and anticipates further shifts. Chairman and CEO Matthew Cox informed investors that the firm benefited from elevated freight costs and reduced air cargo capacity in certain markets.

Mr. Cox highlighted that Matson had already gained from air-to-ocean movements prior to the Middle East conflict and the fuel price increases related to the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that customer demand for expedited space had created a long-term trend, with some conversions being temporary and others permanent.

He added that energy prices and availability issues had significantly disrupted air freight markets, particularly in regions reliant on imported jet fuel. Matson, which provides rail, road, and ocean transport alongside logistics and warehousing, has positioned itself to capture this shift.

While jet fuel costs have encouraged some shippers to move cargo by sea, global air freight rates have recently eased after a series of increases since the onset of the Middle East conflict, according to TAC Index.