The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its air cargo data report for January 2026.

The monthly report shows that total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), was up 5.6% compared to January 2025 levels. Meanwhile, capacity in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK) rose by 3.6%.

Regional Insights

IATA’s Director-General, Wille Walsh, noted the sturdy start in demand for air cargo in 2026. However, growth rates varied by region:

• Africa, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Europe all reported faster growth compared to the global average.
• In contrast, North America faced a decline.

Walsh mentioned the ongoing impact of evolving US trade policies and the tensions in the Middle East may weigh down global supply chains.

These topics will be discussed at the World Cargo Symposium in Lima, Peru, from March 10th to 12th. This year’s symposium will focus on the industry’s adaptability and efficiency through digitalization and other measures.

Noteworthy Factors from January 2026:

• Global goods trade grew by 4.9% year-on-year.
• Jet fuel prices decreased by 6.5% year-on-year.
• Global manufacturing sentiment improved, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rising to 51.8, indicating positive industrial growth despite some mixed signals.

Performance by Region:

• Asia-Pacific: 7.8% growth in air cargo demand, capacity increased by 3.3%.
• North America: 0.5% decline, with a capacity decrease of 0.2%.
• Europe: 6.9% increase in demand, capacity up by 4.9%.
• Middle East: 9.3% growth in demand, strongest capacity increase at 9.9%.
• Latin America: 2.0% decrease in demand, capacity increased by 2.3%.
• Africa: Strongest growth at 18.2%, with capacity rising by 6.5%.