Market Overview

The global air freight market size was valued at USD 335.2 Billion in 2025. It is projected to reach USD 506.2 Billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.70% during the forecast period 2026-2034. The market growth is driven by rising demand for fast and efficient cross-border goods transportation and the expanding e-commerce sector, supported by technological advancements and increasing international trade.

Study Assumption Years

• Base Year: 2025
• Historical Year/Period: 2020-2025
• Forecast Year/Period: 2026-2034

Air Freight Market Key Takeaways

• Current Market Size: USD 335.2 Billion in 2025
• CAGR: 4.70% (2026-2034)
• Forecast Period: 2026-2034
• Asia Pacific held the largest market share of 39.5% in 2025, driven by infrastructure investments and regional demand.
• Freight is the dominant service type with around 74.1% market share in 2025 due to its efficient, reliable transport.
• International destinations account for 85.1% of market share in 2025, boosted by global supply chains and high-value goods movement.
• Commercial end users represent 88.5% of market share in 2025, reflecting extensive use by manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers.

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Market Growth Factors

The global air freight market is stimulated by the rapid expansion of e-commerce, which necessitates faster delivery of goods worldwide. For example, India's e-commerce users are projected to reach 501.6 million by 2029, with user penetration increasing from 22.1% in 2024 to 34.0%, and an average revenue per user of INR 14,121. The Government e-Marketplace's gross merchandise value reached USD 201.1 Billion in 2022-23. This surge drives demand for quick logistics, notably in sectors like pharmaceuticals and perishables.

Increasing globalization and the rising import/export of goods worldwide further propel the market. Cross-border trade growth emphasizes the need for efficient air cargo services. Technological advancements, including automation and digital tracking, enhance operational efficiency and reliability, directly supporting market expansion. Rising consumer expectations for quick deliveries, especially in industries dependent on time-sensitive goods, continue to push growth.

The air freight sector also benefits from innovations in sustainable aviation solutions enhancing market outlooks. Economic growth in emerging markets and expansion of international supply chains emphasize air freight's role in supply resilience. For instance, Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in China reported a 101% increase in cross-border e-commerce shipments from January to July 2023, with freighter operations contributing. This trend highlights the market's response to fast-evolving logistics demands.

Market Segmentation

By Service:

• Freight: Accounts for approximately 74.1% of market share in 2025. It is preferred for efficient, reliable, and cost-effective transportation of goods, offering appropriate handling and packaging of hazardous or fragile cargo. Notable expansions include Cargojet's agreements with DHL Express, adding aircraft capacities to meet cargo volume demands.

By Destination:

• International: Dominates with about 85.1% market share in 2025. Provides essential connectivity and speed for shipping goods between continents, especially for high-value and perishable items like pharmaceuticals and electronics. Global carriers are expanding door-to-door delivery services to compete with e-commerce giants.

By End User:

• Commercial: Holds approximately 88.5% market share in 2025. Commercial users such as manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers heavily utilize air freight to ensure efficient supply chains. E-commerce shipments constitute about 18% of air cargo, expected to rise with shifting consumer behaviors and enhanced digitalization.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific led the air freight market with a significant 39.5% share in 2025, attributed to governmental investments and modernization of airport infrastructure. Many Asia-Pacific countries encouraged conversion of passenger aircraft to freighters, increasing cargo capacities suitable for regional demands. The region also benefits from growth in cold chain logistics and large trade agreements like RCEP, supporting smoother cross-border goods movement.

Recent Developments & News

• February 2025: Nippon Express Co. Ltd. partnered with Nikon Corporation to supply SAF-enabled air freight transportation services with CO2 reduction certificates.
• February 2025: JAS acquired International Airfreight Associates B.V., enhancing its international network, especially for perishable goods.
• January 2025: Freightos partnered with Dutch GSA Euro Cargo Aviation and Norwegian Cargo to join WebCargo, enabling real-time digital bookings.
• January 2025: Finnair Cargo joined Unisys's Cargo Portal Services (CPS) platform to increase operational effectiveness and booking visibility.
• December 2024: China Airlines integrated IBS Software's iCargo solution, advancing its digitalization as a top air freight provider globally.
• May 2024: Maersk opened a 90,000 sq. ft. air freight gateway in Miami to facilitate cargo flow from Europe and Asia to Latin America.

Key Players

• 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.

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