African airlines recorded the strongest air cargo growth of any region in May, highlighting the continent’s expanding role in global trade and supply chains as demand for freight services continues to outpace much of the world.
This is according to the latest data released by International Air Transport Association (IATA) that indicates African carriers posted a remarkable 13.3% year-on-year increase in air cargo demand during May 2026. This is more than double the global average growth rate of 6%.
Capacity on the continent increased by a modest 1.3%, indicating that airlines are carrying significantly more cargo without a corresponding expansion in available space.
The figures underscore growing confidence in African trade routes, particularly as commerce between Africa and Asia continues to accelerate. IATA has identified the Africa-Asia trade lane as one of the world’s fastest-growing cargo corridors in May, second only to Asia-North America.
Globally, the air cargo sector continued its recovery, with demand measured in cargo tonne-kilometres (CTKs) rising 6% compared to the same period last year, while international cargo demand climbed 6.5%. Available cargo capacity increased by just 1.9%, reflecting disciplined fleet management by airlines amid ongoing economic uncertainty. IATA Director General Willie Walsh said the industry’s performance demonstrates resilience despite geopolitical challenges and volatile operating costs.
“Air cargo demand grew 6% year-on-year in May, with Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America all reporting above-trend growth,” Walsh said.
He noted that although airlines in the Middle East continued to face significant disruptions from regional conflict, resulting in an 8.9% contraction in cargo demand, the broader outlook remains cautiously optimistic.
“Trade and manufacturing output are both growing. Airlines have adapted operations to align with shifting demand patterns and supply chain needs. Meanwhile, yield growth and higher load factors are helping to recoup higher fuel costs,” he said.
The latest figures point to a strengthening global trading environment. International trade expanded by 5.0% year-on-year in May, extending an impressive run of 25 consecutive months of annual growth. Manufacturing activity also remained supportive of freight demand.
The Global Manufacturing Output Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 53.5 during the month, although weaker export orders suggest cargo growth is being driven by specific high-performing trade routes rather than a broad-based surge in exports.
–ebrandt@nepc.com.na
