IATA reports a 4.4% increase in global air cargo demand for August.

In August 2026, global air cargo demand rose by 4.4% year-on-year, driven primarily by a 5.3% increase in international operations, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). While global cargo capacity remained stable, it slightly declined by 0.1%, with some regions, like North America, experiencing notable demand growth of 6.6%. Factors supporting demand included a 6% rise in global trade and strengthening manufacturing activity. However, rising jet fuel prices added pressure on operating costs, highlighting a mixed performance across regional markets.