Sign upLog in
eCommerce
eCommerce
Streamline online business operations
Enterprise
Enterprise
Optimize large-scale supply chain
SMEs
SMEs
Boost efficiency for growing businesses
Individual
Individual
Simplify personal logistics
Blog
Blog
Glossary
Glossary
AboutUs
About Us
PressRoom
Press Room
FAQ
FAQ
Careers
Careers
Partnership
Partnership
DownloadApp
Download App
ContactUs
Contact us
Relocation
Install Shopify App
Book a Demo
Instant Quote
express Express
document Document
parcel Parcel - Air/Sea
container Container
relocation Relocation
Send from
arrow-drop-down
Results
Deliver to
arrow-drop-down
Results
Load
arrow-drop-down
1
× × CM
KG
Search
Table of Contents
Categories
Recent Posts
Who We Serve
Want To Compare The Best Express, Air Freight, Sea Freight, Rail Freight & Trucking Rates So As To Have Better Control On Cost?
Get Quote Now
If You Wish To Learn More About Ocean Freight Rates, Please Go To The FreightAmigo Page For Inquiries
Contact Us
The procedures for the regulation of restricted items and tariff arrangements are complicated. If you want to safely deliver your favorite items to your new home, it is best to have logistics experts to support you throughout the process! If you are planning to arrange overseas moving, welcome to FreightAmigo’s special page for overseas moving freight quotations.
Overseas Relocation Plan
FreightAmigo offers oversea immigration service to make your move-in easier!
Overseas Relocation Plan
There are different options for cargo transportation. If you want to choose the most convenient and suitable solution, it is best to have the full support of logistics experts! If you are planning to ship goods overseas, please go to the FreightAmigo page for inquiries.
Contact Us
If you are looking for logistics experts, please visit FreightAmigo Page
Contact Us
There Are Different Options For Transporting Goods, And To Choose The Most Convenient And Suitable Solution, It Is Best To Have Full Support From Logistics Experts! If You Are Planning To Ship Goods Overseas, Please Visit The FreightAmigo Page For Inquiries!
Contact Us
FreightAmigo, a supply chain e-marketplace, would ship your documents, small parcels or pallet anywhere in the world with flexible solutions. Get an instant quote on FreightAmigo and make trade easier!
Get Quote Now
If you’re looking For Cosmetics Shipping, Please Go To The FreightAmigo Page For Inquiries
Cosmetics Shipping
Home
>
Blog
>
【Logistics News】IATA: Continuous Drop in Air Freight Demand
Featured Image
Author: Ivy Tse
Published:
Updated:

IATA: Continuous Drop in Air Freight Demand 2025 Update

TL;DR: IATA reports ongoing air freight demand decline into 2025 amid geopolitical tensions, economic slowdowns, and regional disruptions, with Asia-Pacific hit hardest; recovery hinges on policy shifts.

Understanding the IATA Air Freight Demand Drop in 2025

The **International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlights a persistent decline in global air freight demand**, continuing trends from prior years into 2025. Factors like inflation, supply chain bottlenecks, and shifting trade policies drive this downturn.

Air cargo volumes fell sharply, reflecting broader logistics challenges. Businesses face higher costs and reduced capacity, impacting international shipping efficiency.

Key Statistics on 2025 Air Freight Demand Decline

**IATA data reveals an 11.2% drop in air freight demand in early 2025**, echoing April 2022's steepest decline since August 2020.

  • Global air freight tonnage down 11.2% year-over-year.
  • Capacity utilization at historic lows due to fewer belly cargo flights.
  • Freight rates softened amid oversupply in select routes.

These metrics signal a cooling market, urging shippers to adapt strategies.

Europe's Air Freight Challenges from Geopolitical Tensions

**Europe saw a 24.6% plunge in air freight demand**, linked to ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict disruptions in 2025.

Air freight volume dropped 14.4%, with Russian and Ukrainian carriers sidelined, straining transcontinental routes.

  • Sanctions limit overflight permissions.
  • Cargo rerouting increases transit times 30%.
  • Alternative paths via Middle East add fuel costs.

Asia-Pacific Air Freight Volume Falls 15.8% in 2025

**Asia-Pacific experienced the sharpest air freight volume decline at 15.8%**, fueled by China's stringent 2025 policy adjustments and regional lockdowns.

Japan's air cargo exports dropped 9% in May trends extending into 2025, per Japan Aircargo Forwarders Association (JAFA).

  • Dynamic zero-COVID echoes delay exports.
  • Port congestions compound air freight pressures.
  • Electronics and perishables sectors hit hardest.

How Economic Slowdown Affects Global Air Cargo Demand

**Worldwide economic slowdown reduces import demand, directly curbing air freight volumes in 2025**.

Experts forecast sluggish GDP growth, trimming e-commerce and manufacturing shipments reliant on speed.

RegionDemand Drop (%)Key Factor
Europe24.6Geopolitics
Asia-Pacific15.8Policy Restrictions
Global11.2Economic Slowdown

2025 Case Study: Japan's Air Freight Export Decline

**JAFA reports five straight months of air freight declines, with 9% drop in exports signaling 2025 trends**.

Yet, potential China export easing could spark rebound, though sustainability remains uncertain amid national changes.

  1. Monitor policy relaxations for upticks.
  2. Diversify to sea-air hybrids.
  3. Leverage data analytics for forecasting.

Strategies to Navigate Air Freight Demand Drop

**Shippers must pivot amid IATA's air freight demand warnings with these proven tactics**.

  • Multimodal shipping: Combine air with ocean for cost savings.
  • Inventory buffering: Stockpile ahead of peak volatility.
  • Digital tracking: Real-time visibility cuts delays.
  • Route optimization: Avoid sanctioned airspace.
  • Sustainable options: Greener alternatives reduce emissions.

FAQ: Air Freight Demand Drop 2025 Insights

Quick answers to top questions on IATA's air freight trends**.

Q: What caused the 11.2% global air freight drop? A: Geopolitical conflicts, economic slowdown, and capacity constraints per IATA.

Q: How has Europe been impacted? A: 24.6% demand fall from Russia-Ukraine issues reducing carrier availability.

Q: Why Asia-Pacific decline of 15.8%? A: China's 2025 policies and lockdowns hampered volumes most.

Q: Japan's air exports trend? A: JAFA notes 9% May drop, fifth consecutive month into 2025.

Q: Recovery outlook? A: Possible rebound with policy easing, but short-term volatility persists.

Q: Best alternatives to air freight? A: Multimodal sea-air combos offer reliability and lower costs.

Q: Impact on freight rates? A: Rates softened due to demand drop and excess capacity.

Q: 2025 national changes affecting logistics? A: Massive shifts like EU green mandates reshape air cargo rules.

Q: How to track air freight demand? A: Follow IATA monthly reports for real-time global insights.

Resources for Logistics Professionals

For tailored air freight solutions amid 2025 demand drops, Book a Demo. Contact: HKG +852 24671689, CHN +86 4008751689, USA +1 337 361 2833, GBR +44 808 189 0136, AUS +61 1800027525 | Email: enquiry@freightamigo.com. One tool among options to optimize your supply chain.