WorldACD reported that global volumes declined in March due to the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), but Africa, Middle East and South Asia as the hardest-hit areas.

In a statement, WorldACD said volumes by chargeable weight decreased 17.7% year-on-year in March, despite its first week being "the best week of the year so far".

In Africa, a decline of 28% was recorded, while the Middle East and South Asia, both recorded a 32% drop. The Asia Pacific declined by 12% and the Americas by 17%.

WorldACD noted that a 2% increase in overall freighter capacity was more than offset by a sudden 39% drop in belly hold capacity, causing yields to go up in most regions and particularly for cargo originating in the Asia Pacific.

Compared to February figures, freighter capacity increased 29% while belly hold capacity decreased by the same percentage, it added.

Meanwhile, the statement added that airlines operating dedicated freighters carried 42% more cargo, while cargo volumes for airlines operating only passenger aircraft decreased 22%. Cargo only airlines improved their market share and recorded 81% growth in USD revenues.

WorldACD said fish & seafood, fruits & vegetables and flowers were hardest hit, with drops between the first and the last week of 41%, 53% and 58% respectively.

"No one could have foreseen what the world is going through as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Trying to compare our days with an earlier period in history seems senseless, as so many parameters have changed drastically," it said.