Worldwide air cargo volumes drop by 3% as freight rates level off.

Global air cargo volumes decreased by 3% week-on-week from July 20 to 26, 2026, while capacity fell by 1%. Despite the drop in demand, air cargo pricing stabilized after four weeks of decline, influenced by rising aviation fuel costs. Every region saw a decline in chargeable weight, with Africa experiencing the largest drop at 7%. The ongoing conflicts in the Persian Gulf and disruptions in shipping routes significantly impacted cargo flows, especially from Africa and the Asia Pacific. Overall, global cargo rates slightly increased due to higher fuel prices.