The global air freight market size was valued at USD 319.4 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 492.7 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.9% from 2025 to 2033.
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The implementation of scheduled freighter routes connecting key global centers improves air freight connectivity. With dedicated cargo services, such routes meet the increased need for shipping high-value commodities, including medicines and electronics, resulting in speedier and more effective global logistics solutions. For example, in March 2024, Challenge Group decided to launch a scheduled freighter route between Mumbai (BOM) and Liège (LGG). Operating twice weekly, the service would use the capacity of Challenge Group’s recently acquired second B767 freighter, which has a payload of 52 tons per uplift. The freighter mainly carries pharmaceuticals and electronics.
Moreover, direct integration of cargo booking systems with freight forwarders simplifies air freight operations. Such innovations boost workflow efficiency by enabling real-time data transmission, offering seamless access to aircraft schedules and fares, and removing the need for manual platform navigation, hence increasing consumer convenience and operational productivity. For instance, in March 2024, Korean Air connected its cargo booking system with DHL Global Forwarding. This was the first time the airline had connected its booking system directly with a freight forwarder that allows DHL Global Forwarding to book cargo on Korean Air flights directly from its system, bypassing the need to access the airline’s platform. The integration enhances workflow efficiency by enabling real-time data exchange between the airline and customers, facilitating easier access to flight schedules and air cargo rates. Furthermore, the air freight market is changing, with providers focused on integrating digital systems for easy booking and real-time tracking to improve operational efficiency. Additionally, the replacement and charter air freight sectors are growing as substantial income sources, servicing a variety of logistical requirements. The industry is being shaped by companies' increasing desire for efficient and sustainable air freight solutions, which include investments in carbon-neutral technology that aligns with environmental aims. For example, this transition is reflected in North America's growing embrace of digital air freight systems. Companies are developing online booking tools that offer rapid pricing and real-time data on shipping routes worldwide. This change promotes the rapid growth of e-commerce and operational efficiency, meeting client needs for faster and more dependable delivery services in a variety of industries, including retail, medicines, and electronics.
The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest air freight market share on account of the rising trade activities.
North America has experienced a spike in e-commerce, which is fueling air freight demand. Amazon plans to increase its air freight fleet to more than 80 planes by 2024, underlining the region's emphasis on fast delivery services.
Europe prioritizes sustainable air freight solutions. Companies, such as DHL, are investing in renewable aviation fuel and carbon-neutral logistics to lessen the environmental effect of air freight operations.
Asia Pacific leads the air freight industry due to its robust manufacturing and export industries. China's air freight volume reached 7.5 million tons in 2023, demonstrating the region's importance in international commerce.
Latin America is developing its aviation freight infrastructure. Brazil's airport modernization initiatives aim to improve cargo handling efficiency, hence increasing the region's air freight capacity.
The Middle East and Africa region utilizes smart geographic placement to boost aviation freight hubs. In 2023, Dubai International Airport carried 2.5 million tons of goods, making it an important cross-continental hub.
Some of the leading air freight market companies include American Airlines Inc., ANA Cargo Inc., Bolloré Logistics, Cargolux Airlines International S.A., Delta Air Lines Inc., Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, DSV A/S, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corporation, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Nippon Express Co. Ltd., Qatar Airways, and United Parcel Service Inc., among many others. For example, in February 2024, A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk), as a part of its integrated logistics solutions, launched a fully digital solution as part of its integrated logistics offerings. The online platform, available on Maersk.com, allows customers to book air cargo requirements and access instant prices for up to 70,000 global airport connections.
Report Features | Details |
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Market Size in 2024 | USD 319.4 Billion |
Market Forecast in 2033 | USD 492.7 Billion |
Market Growth Rate 2025-2033 | 4.9% |
Units | Billion USD |
Scope of the Report | Exploration of Historical Trends and Market Outlook, Industry Catalysts and Challenges, Segment-Wise Historical and Future Market Assessment:
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Services Covered | Freight, Express, Mail, Others |
Destinations Covered | Domestic, International |
End Users Covered | Private, Commercial |
Regions Covered | North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and Africa |
Countries Covered | United States, Canada, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico |
Companies Covered | American Airlines Inc., ANA Cargo Inc., Bolloré Logistics, Cargolux Airlines International S.A., Delta Air Lines Inc., Deutsche Bahn AG, Deutsche Post AG, DSV A/S, Expeditors International of Washington Inc., FedEx Corporation, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG, Kuehne + Nagel International AG, Nippon Express Co. Ltd., Qatar Airways, United Parcel Service Inc., etc. |
Customization Scope | 10% Free Customization |
Post-Sale Analyst Support | 10-12 Weeks |
Delivery Format | PDF and Excel through Email (We can also provide the editable version of the report in PPT/Word format on special request) |