Airlines in the Asia Pacific region collectively saw increased cargo demand in April despite the rise in economic headwinds, softening global economic conditions and persistent trade frictions.

Traffic figures released by the Kuala Lumpur-based Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed that international air cargo demand — measured in freight tonne-kilometers (FTK) — was up by 4.9% year-on-year last month.

April's performance was, however, slightly lower month-on-month when FTK was up 5.7% year-on-year in March.

[Source: AAPA]

“While the global manufacturing sector faced increased challenges amid uncertainties over tariff disputes, air cargo demand in April was supported by the advance loading of shipments on selected routes and the rerouting of goods to alternative gateways,” AAPA said in its latest report.

AAPA noted that offered freight capacity was up 4.2% during the period.

The international freight load factor edged 0.4 percentage points higher to 61.5% compared to the same month last year.

“International air cargo demand recorded a 5% increase during the first four months of the year, even as consumers and businesses faced heightened uncertainty due to tariff disputes. This environment contributed to advance purchases and stockpiling activity in anticipation of potential cost increases,” Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General, said.

Looking ahead, the AAPA chief warned of a “challenging” next few months for air cargo amid increasing trade uncertainties.

“The trade disputes and softening macroeconomic conditions may signal challenging times for air travel and cargo markets in the months ahead,” Menon said.

“This will place further strain on already thin profit margins in the airline industry. Overall, the region’s carriers remain vigilant, actively monitoring market developments and ready to adapt swiftly to evolving conditions.”