Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Air Freight in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

Graph and download economic data for Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight (IC131) from Sep 1990 to Jun 2025 about air travel, freight, travel, services, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

Graph and download economic data for Outbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight (IS231) from Sep 1992 to Jul 2025 about air travel, freight, travel, services, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Air Freight market size will be USD 68154.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.60% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 27261.68 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 20446.26 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2024 to 2031.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 15675.47 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3407.71 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 1363.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% from 2024 to 2031.
The Freight held the highest Air Freight market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Air Freight Market

Key Drivers for Air Freight Market

Consolidated Air Freight Service is Growing in Popularity to Propel Market Growth:

Air freight service businesses offer four different delivery options. There are four options: charter, standard, postponed, and consolidated. Consolidated air freight service offers users a cost-effective means of transportation with cheaper pricing and reliable timetables, allowing them to plan their supply chains perfectly. Clients who select the Consolidated air freight option can combine their shipment with a variety of other commodities to form a complete load. Consolidated air freight becomes an extremely cost-effective method of transporting goods by plane. Furthermore, consolidated shipments help transportation service providers and airlines since flying an airplane with a full cargo load is less expensive than flying an aircraft with a partial cargo load. Consolidated air freight is the most cost-effective means to move goods quickly and safely, and its growing popularity is expected to propel the worldwide market forward throughout the forecast period.

Shipments are Delivered Faster to Propel Market Growth:

Cargo planes are the fastest means of transportation for delivering commodities. While other modes of transportation, such as shipping, rail, and road transport, can take days or weeks to deliver items, air transport can do so in hours. Because there are more tiny items to unload than cargo ships, customs clearance is quick, and no local warehousing is required. Furthermore, air freight is the safest mode of transportation among the others because things delivered by air require less handling, and airport safety requirements are strictly followed. The risk of theft and harm to the package has decreased. Furthermore, due to the short period of the shipment, air freight insurance prices are usually low. Because of these considerations, air freight is an excellent and required mode of cargo transportation.

Restraint Factor for the Air Freight Market

High Price Associated with Air Freight Solution to Hinder Market Growth:

Weight and volume are the most important factors in calculating the cost of air freight transportation. Air carriers typically charge according to volumetric or actual weight, whichever is more expensive. Aside from that, air freight pricing is likely to include costs such as fuel surcharges, terminal handling taxes, security surcharges, and airport transfers. Furthermore, the price covers air cargo services such as cargo insurance, pickup and delivery, customs brokerage, and accessorial fees for door-to-door delivery. Furthermore, fluctuations in aviation fuel costs affect air freight operations. The high cost of air freight delivery is likely to limit worldwide market growth throughout the projection period.

TrendFactor for the Air Freight Market

Rising Adoption of Hybrid Air Freight Models for Cost Optimization and Speed:

A major trend reshaping the global air freight market is the increased adoption of hybrid air freight solutions—a strategic combination of con...

In December 2021, airfreight rates between Hong Kong and North America were at an all-time high of ***** U.S. dollars per kilogram since the coronavirus pandemic started. As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak spreads across the globe, many more countries restrict the transportation of goods across borders or ban it, thus, affecting the international airfreight rates as well.

United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight was 187.80000 Index 2000=100 in July of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight reached a record high of 296.20000 in January of 2022 and a record low of 92.70000 in September of 1998. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on September of 2025.

The Air Freight Market Report is Segmented by Service (Freight Transport, Freight Forwarding, and More), Destination (Domestic and International), Carrier Type (Belly Cargo and Freighter), Cargo Type (General Cargo and Special Cargo), End-User Industry (E-Commerce & Retail, Manufacturing & Automotive, and More), Geography (North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The United States Air Freight Market is Segmented by Service Type (Freight Transport (Cargo/CEP), Freight Forwarding and More), by Destination (Domestic and More), by Carrier Type (Belly Cargo and Freighter), by Cargo Type (General Cargo and Special Cargo), by End-User Industry (E-Commerce & Retail, Manufacturing & Automotive and More), by Region (Northeast, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Graph and download economic data for Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight for Asia (IC1312) from Sep 1990 to Jun 2025 about Asia, services, price index, indexes, price, and USA.

The global volume of air-freight transport in was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029 by in total **** billion ton-kilometers (+***** percent). After the seventh consecutive increasing year, the volume of air-freight transport is estimated to reach ***** billion ton-kilometers and therefore a new peak in 2029. As defined by Worldbank, air freight refers to the summated volume of freight, express and diplomatic bags carried across the various flight stages (from takeoff to the next landing). The forecast has been adjusted for the expected impact of COVID-19.The shown data are an excerpt of Statista's Key Market Indicators (KMI). The KMI are a collection of primary and secondary indicators on the macro-economic, demographic and technological environment in more than *** countries and regions worldwide. All input data are sourced from international institutions, national statistical offices, and trade associations. All data has been are processed to generate comparable datasets (see supplementary notes under details for more information).Find more key insights for the volume of air-freight transport in countries like Australia & Oceania and Europe.

Snapshot img

Air Freight Market Size 2025-2029

The air freight market size is forecast to increase by USD 96.5 billion, at a CAGR of 7.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand from the e-commerce sector. With the rise of online shopping, there has been a surge in the need for quick and efficient delivery of goods, leading to an increase in air freight demand. Another trend transforming the air freight industry is the implementation of blockchain technology. This innovative solution enhances transparency, security, and efficiency in the supply chain, reducing the need for intermediaries and streamlining processes. However, the high cost of air freight services remains a significant challenge for market participants. Despite the advantages of faster delivery times and increased security, the high costs can limit the adoption of air freight by some businesses. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities should focus on optimizing their supply chain logistics and exploring cost-effective solutions to offset the high costs of air freight services. Effective implementation of technology, such as blockchain, can help streamline processes and reduce costs, while strategic partnerships and collaborations can help share costs and increase operational efficiency. Navigating these challenges requires a proactive and strategic approach, with a focus on innovation, cost optimization, and supply chain efficiency.

What will be the Size of the Air Freight Market during the forecast period?

Request Free SampleThe market dynamics continue to evolve, with time-sensitive shipments driving the need for efficient and effective solutions. Route optimization and real-time tracking are crucial for ensuring swift delivery, while distribution centers and cargo handling equipment streamline the process. Express shipping and aviation safety standards are integral components of the air freight industry, ensuring the secure and timely transport of various goods. Cargo handling systems, from conveyor belts to cargo aircraft, are continually advancing to accommodate diverse cargo types, including hazardous materials and perishable goods. Predictive analytics and data analytics enable proactive decision-making, optimizing air cargo capacity and fuel efficiency. Carbon emission reduction is a growing concern, with air freight management integrating sustainable practices and technologies, such as RFID and blockchain, to enhance cargo security and streamline cargo logistics. Environmental regulations and freight rates shape the industry landscape, with cargo insurance and customs clearance playing essential roles in the supply chain. Air cargo networks and cargo space availability remain key factors, with inventory management and cargo logistics ensuring seamless integration of various components. Air cargo regulations and airfreight tracking provide transparency and accountability, enabling effective cargo operations and flight schedules. Live animals and freight forwarders require specialized handling, with air waybills and cargo automation facilitating the process. Cargo consolidation and temperature-controlled shipping maintain the integrity of sensitive goods, while cargo insurance offers protection against potential losses. The ongoing unfolding of market activities reveals a dynamic and evolving the market, with continuous innovation and adaptation to meet the demands of various sectors.

How is this Air Freight Industry segmented?

The air freight industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. End-userCommercialPrivateTypeInternationalDomesticApplicationFood and perishable goodsIndustrial materialsEquipment and machineryOthersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaRest of World (ROW)

By End-user Insights

The commercial segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market experiences continuous expansion due to the increasing demand for consumer electronics, automotive products, food items, frozen food, agricultural products, and medical devices. In 2024, the price decrease of consumer electronics in Japan and China, driven by economies of scale in production, intensifies price competition among manufacturers in South Korea and Taiwan. This price reduction increases their purchase frequency, necessitating swift and controlled transportation. Airfreight forwarding is the preferred choice for these perishable goods, ensuring timely delivery and maintaining their physical and chemical integrity. Sustainable air cargo practices, such as fuel efficiency and carbon emission reduction, are gaining importance in the industry. Air cargo terminals employ a

Air Freight Services Market size is growing with a CAGR of 6.0% in the prediction period and it crosses US$ 240.88 Bn by 2032 from US$ 160.10 Bn in 2025.

The global air freight market reached a volume of nearly 109.67 MMT in 2024 due to the surge in demand for commercial aircraft. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.00% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to attain a volume of 340.62 MMT by 2034. The air freight market is an important part of the global supply chain, as it is an efficient and rapid way to transport goods. Freight forwarders cooperate closely with cargo handling agents and customs brokers for seamless shipment of products. Commercial aviation is important for moving perishable goods, which need to be delivered timely. The air freight industry is undergoing transformation in response to mounting demand for faster shipping times, flights guaranteeing reliability, efficiency and real-time tracking. In this highly competitive marketplace, many businesses rely on freight forwarders and cargo handling agents to help them coordinate and optimize logistics.

The US air freight transport market, a significant component of the global air freight industry, is experiencing robust growth, driven by the expansion of e-commerce, the increasing globalization of supply chains, and the rising demand for time-sensitive deliveries. The market's size is substantial, with a considerable portion attributed to domestic transport. While precise figures for the US market are unavailable, leveraging the provided global CAGR of >4% and considering the US's significant economic activity and reliance on air freight, a reasonable estimation places the 2025 market value in the range of $80-100 billion. Key segments like freight forwarding and belly cargo are experiencing particularly strong growth, fueled by the need for efficient and reliable international shipping. The dominance of major players like FedEx, UPS, and DHL reflects the consolidation within the industry and the importance of advanced logistics capabilities. However, the market faces challenges including fluctuating fuel prices, geopolitical instability impacting international routes, and the ongoing impacts of global supply chain disruptions. These factors necessitate adaptability and strategic planning among market participants to maintain profitability and competitiveness. Future projections for the US air freight transport market remain positive, with continued expansion expected throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). Technological advancements, such as automation in warehousing and improved tracking systems, will further enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmentally friendly practices within the logistics sector will also influence future developments, prompting investment in fuel-efficient aircraft and sustainable packaging solutions. While competition among established players will remain intense, opportunities exist for smaller firms specializing in niche services or regional markets. The ongoing growth of e-commerce will continue to drive demand for express air freight services, underscoring the importance of agile and responsive logistics networks. Recent developments include: February 2022: DHL Express to expand its U.S. air network - but the growth doesn't stop there. A new hub in Ontario, California, and a gateway in Texas to support a massive increase in e-commerce shipments also are part of DHL's ambitious plans, the top executive in the U.S. told American Shipper. The development and exploration of new airport facilities come as the global express carrier wraps up a three-year, $360 million expansion program for the Americas, including a major renovation that doubled the shipment capacity of its hub in Miami., February 2023: DHL will double its planned investment in Mexico through 2024 as it shifts cargo flights from the capital's closest airport to a new, distant facility backed by the country's president. The company will invest USD 600 million in Mexico through next year, up from its previous plan to spend USD 300 million from 2019 to 2024. The strategy includes about USD 55 million for cargo operations at Mexico City's new Felipe Angeles International Airport, according to DHL country head Antonio Arranz.. Notable trends are: Increased Capacity Due to Increased Demand and Falling Rates.

The market value of the air cargo industry worldwide is projected to amount to almost *** billion U.S. dollars in 2022, a year-on-year decrease of around **** percent. After three years of a downward trend, the air freight market is expected to recover and reach approximately ***** billion U.S. dollars by 2027.

Container freight rates oscillated dramatically between January 2023 and July 2025. Freight rates slumped to their lowest level on the 26th of October 2023, when the going rate for a 40-foot container was only ***** U.S. dollars. Since then, the global freight rate has significantly increased, hitting over ***** U.S. dollars in July 2024, the highest value on record. As of July 10, 2025, freight rates decreased to 2,672 U.S. dollars per 40ft container. How did we get here? The global supply chain is a fragile system consisting of numerous links. Disruption to one can send cascading effects down a chain that needs to function properly for the whole system to work. The COVID-19 pandemic turned out to be an event of such a magnitude to either bring to halt whole industries and supply chains, or severely reduce their efficiency. Due to its complexity and transcontinental nature, container shipping was hit especially hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the start of the pandemic, the shipping industry has had to struggle with port closures and congestions, labor shortages, difficulties with capacity utilization, as well as a lack of new shipping containers. In more recent months, the impact of the conflict in the Middle-East between Israel and numerous Islamic nations has had a significant effect on oil exports in the region, further exacerbating an industry in desperate need of recovery. Container carriers profiting While costs of operating a container fleet have increased, the surge in freight rates has not served just to cover rising expenses. Container ship operators had been reporting record-high operating profit margins since the beginning of the pandemic. However, despite these high profit margins, the freight rate increase has had some repercussions. In the second quarter of 2023, main container shipping companies had an average profit margin of *** percent, a decrease of almost ** percent compared to the peak EBIT in the first quarter of 2022. Despite this decrease, some of the carriers are combating this trend by using their previous profits to increase their carrying capacity by buying new containers and ordering new container ships. However, the delivery of these newly ordered ships is still years away.

The GCC Air Freight Transport Market Report is Segmented by Destination (Domestic and International), Carrier Type (Belly Cargo and Freighter), Cargo Type (General Cargo and Special Cargo), End-User Industry (E-Commerce & Retail, Manufacturing & Automotive, High-Tech & Electronics, and More), Country (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Snapshot img

Air Freight Services Market Size 2025-2029

The air freight services market size is forecast to increase by USD 64.6 billion at a CAGR of 4.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increase in cross-border e-commerce activities. The increasing trend of online shopping and the subsequent rise in international deliveries have led to a substantial increase in demand for air freight services. Additionally, the adoption of advanced technologies such as blockchain is revolutionizing the industry by enhancing security, transparency, and efficiency. However, the high cost of availing air freight services remains a significant challenge for market growth. Despite this, companies can capitalize on the opportunities presented by this market by offering competitive pricing, focusing on niche markets, and implementing technology solutions to streamline operations and reduce costs. Overall, the market offers substantial growth potential for investors and businesses seeking to capitalize on the increasing demand for fast and reliable international delivery solutions.

What will be the Size of the Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

The market, a significant segment of the global logistics industry, continues to evolve with advancements in technology and increasing demand for efficient and expedited shipping solutions. Key trends shaping the market include the integration of cool-chain systems for temperature-sensitive goods, the adoption of robotics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced aircraft operations, and the utilization of big data, deep learning, Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality, and virtual reality for optimized freight management and tracking. 
The air cargo industry's growth is driven by the need for high-speed shipments, particularly in sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishables. Freighter flights are increasingly popular for time-sensitive and large-volume consignments, contributing to the market's expansion. Overall, the air freight industry remains a dynamic and innovative sector, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of global trade.

How is this Industry segmented?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  International
  Domestic


End-user

  Manufacturing
  Retail
  Others


Product Type

  General cargo
  Perishable cargo
  Dangerous cargo
  High-value cargo


Geography

  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Type Insights

The international segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Air freight services have gained significant importance in the logistics industry due to the increasing globalization of trade and the e-commerce boom. Companies expanding their global reach require efficient and reliable air freight services to transport goods between continents. Technological advances and logistics management systems have enhanced the efficiency and dependability of international air freight services, offering real-time tracking, automated customs clearing processes, and improved route planning. These advancements have reduced transit times and increased overall service quality, making air freight the preferred choice for time-sensitive cargo. The rise of online shopping and cross-border e-commerce has further fueled the demand for international air cargo services, necessitating fast delivery of goods to customers worldwide.

Get a glance at the market report of share of various segments Request Free Sample

The international segment was valued at USD 126.20 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 44% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

For more insights on the market size of various regions, Request Free Sample

The market in Asia Pacific (APAC) is experiencing significant growth due to the increase in cross-border e-commerce, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan. The e-commerce sector's expansion is driven by the convenience and speed it offers, which has been further accelerated by the pandemic. This trend is expected to boost the growth of the regional the market. According to the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines, the number of foreign passengers transported by APAC airlines increased by 49.4% in January 2024

GCC Air Freight Market The GCC air freight market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, with a projected CAGR of 7.46% over the period 2023-2033. In 2023, the market was valued at $16.81 billion, and it is expected to reach $32.14 billion by 2033. Key growth drivers include increasing e-commerce activity, rising demand for air cargo in the healthcare and manufacturing sectors, and the development of regional transportation hubs. The market is segmented by services (forwarding, airlines, mail, and other services) and destination (domestic and international). Major companies operating in the GCC air freight market include Jazeera Airways Co, Etihad Aviation Group, DHL, FedEx, and JAS Middle East LLC. Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities The GCC air freight market is witnessing advancements in technology and infrastructure, such as the implementation of cargo drones and smart logistics systems. However, challenges such as geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, and rising fuel prices hinder market growth. Despite these challenges, the market presents ample opportunities for players to capitalize on the growing demand for time-sensitive, high-value air cargo. Collaboration and partnerships between stakeholders will be crucial for addressing industry challenges and unlocking future growth potential. Recent developments include: November 2023: United Parcel Service (UPS) finalized its acquisition of Minnesota-based MNX, a global provider of time-sensitive logistics solutions. This acquisition strengthens UPS's capabilities in time-sensitive logistics, particularly benefiting healthcare clients in the United States, Europe, and Asia., October 2023: DHL, a global freight forwarder, successfully acquired full control of UAE-based freight forwarder Danzas AEI Emirates. DHL now owns 40%, and Investment Trading Group (ITG) owns 60%, with the remaining 60% held by the Al Tayer group. DHL emphasizes that the seamless integration of Danzas will contribute to accelerated growth in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the GCC, and the Middle East.. Key drivers for this market are: Economic expansion, Trade liberalization. Potential restraints include: Regulatory barriers, Security concerns. Notable trends are: Booming international segment.

United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight for Asia was 175.70000 Index 2000=100 in June of 2025, according to the United States Federal Reserve. Historically, United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight for Asia reached a record high of 312.20000 in January of 2022 and a record low of 84.20000 in September of 1998. Trading Economics provides the current actual value, an historical data chart and related indicators for United States - Inbound Price Index (International Services): Air Freight for Asia - last updated from the United States Federal Reserve on July of 2025.