New analysis from WorldACD market data has shown the growth of general cargo air freight tonnages is outpacing that of special cargo products so far in 2024.
Analysing the first five months of 2024 indications show total worldwide chargeable weight from January to May 2024 was up 12% compared with the equivalent period last year, with general cargo demand up by 13%, year on year (YoY), and special cargo growth trailing behind at 10%.
The data also shows weaker growth in the tonnages carried via freighters in the first five months of this year which was up 6% YoY. However, cargo carried via passenger aircraft and mixed fleets has grown more strongly with both up 13% as passenger aircraft and cargo belly capacity have continued to return to the market.
Special cargo refers to specially handled cargo whereas general cargo is typically a more straightforward handling procedure.
General cargo air freight outpacing special cargo in 2024
