African Airlines’ Cargo Demand Soars 9.4% In July – IATA

African airlines recorded a 9.4 per cent surge in cargo demand in July, almost double the global average of 5.5 per cent, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

The association, in its monthly update released on Friday, said the increase underscores the continent’s growing role in global trade. However, while demand rose sharply, available cargo capacity slipped marginally by 0.1 per cent, suggesting mounting pressure on carriers to keep pace with volumes.

IATA’s Director-General, Willie Walsh, said Africa’s performance was being driven by resilient intra-regional trade and stronger connectivity with key global markets.

 “The 9.4 per cent rise in demand, even with capacity contracting slightly, highlights the continent’s growing role in global cargo flows,” Walsh noted.

Globally, air cargo demand grew 5.5 per cent year-on-year in July, with international operations up 6 per cent. Capacity expanded by 3.9 per cent, led by a 4.5 per cent increase in international flights.

Regional performances varied widely. Asia-Pacific airlines posted the strongest growth at 11.1 per cent, supported by a 13.5 per cent rise on the Europe–Asia trade lane, marking its 29th consecutive month of expansion. North American carriers recorded the weakest growth, with demand up just 0.7 per cent and capacity down 0.6 per cent. European airlines rose 4.1 per cent, Middle Eastern carriers 2.6 per cent, and Latin American airlines 2.4 per cent.

IATA attributed July’s performance to shifting global trade dynamics. World goods trade grew by 3.1 per cent in June, while jet fuel prices were 9.1 per cent lower year-on-year in July, easing operating costs despite a 4.3 per cent rise compared with June.

However, global manufacturing activity contracted, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index falling to 49.66, below the 50-point expansion threshold. Export orders remained weak at 48.2, reflecting subdued business confidence amid US trade policy changes.

Walsh warned that new US trade measures—including the expiry of de minimis exemptions on small shipments and higher import tariffs—would likely weigh on North America-bound cargo.

“While much attention is on US-related trade lanes, it is important to keep perspective. Africa and Asia are demonstrating resilience, and Europe–Asia remains a powerhouse for global cargo,” he said.