Capacity also falls sharply in tandem
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently released data for global air freight markets in April showing that demand dropped 27.7% compared to the same period in 2019 – the sharpest fall ever recorded. Still, there was insufficient capacity to meet demand as a result of the loss of belly cargo operations on passenger aircraft.
Global demand, measured in cargo tonne kilometres (CTKs), fell by 27.7% in April compared to the previous year (-29.5% for international markets). Similarly global capacity, measured in available cargo tonne kilometres (ACTKs), shrank by 42% in April compared to the previous year (-40.9% for international markets).
Belly capacity for international air cargo shrank by 75% in April compared to the previous year. This was partially offset by a 15% increase in capacity through expanded use of freighter aircraft.
The cargo load factor (CLF) rose 11.5 percentage points in April; the largest increase since tracking began. The magnitude of the rise suggests that there is significant demand for air cargo which cannot be met owing to the cessation of most passenger flights.
“Airlines are deploying as much capacity as possible, including special charter operations and the temporary use of passenger cabins for cargo. Governments need to continue to ensure that vital supply lines remain open and efficient,” said Alexander de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
Meanwhile IATA urges governments to accelerate approvals for cargo operations; expedite customs clearance for urgently needed medical supplies and ensure there is adequate staff on the ground and land-based infrastructure to move cargo efficiently.
Middle Eastern carriers reported a decline of 36.2% year-on-year in April, significantly worse than 14.1% fall in March. Despite a number of carriers in the region maintaining some cargo capacity, traffic on all key routes was low. International capacity decreased 42.4%.
