The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing that air cargo demand rebounded in 2023 with a particularly strong fourth quarter performance despite economic uncertainties. Full-year cargo demand reached a level just slightly below 2022 and 2019. 

Global full-year demand in 2023, measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs), was down 1.9% compared to 2022 (-2.2% for international operations). Compared to 2019, it was down 3.6% (-3.8 for international operations). Capacity in 2023, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometres (ACTKs), was 11.3% above 2022 (+9.6% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-Covid) levels, capacity was up 2.5%.
Meanwhile, December 2023 saw an exceptionally strong performance as global demand was 10.8% above 2022 levels (+11.5% for international operations). This was the strongest annual growth performance over the past two years. Global capacity was 13.6% above 2022 levels (+14.1% for international operations). 

Another indicator to note included global cross-border trade which recorded growth for the third consecutive month in October, reversing its previous downward trend.

“Despite political and economic challenges, 2023 saw air cargo markets regain ground lost in 2022 after the extraordinary Covid peak in 2021. Although full year demand was shy of pre-Covid levels by 3.6%, the significant strengthening in the last quarter is a sign that markets are stabilising towards more normal demand patterns. That puts the industry on very solid ground for success in 2024. 

But with continued, and in some cases intensifying, instability in geopolitics and economic forces, little should be taken for granted in the months ahead,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general.