African airlines recorded the strongest air cargo growth worldwide in September 2025, according to the latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The region posted a 14.7% year-on-year increase in demand, outpacing every other market and marking its seventh consecutive month of positive growth.
The report shows that while global cargo demand rose 2.9% compared to September 2024, Africa’s performance stood out as a bright spot amid shifting global trade patterns. Capacity for African carriers also expanded by 7.4% year-on-year, reflecting continued investment and resilience in the region’s air freight sector.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh noted that global air cargo has continued to adapt amid evolving trade dynamics driven by tariff changes and new supply chain realities. “While many had feared an unwinding of global trade, we are instead seeing air cargo adapting successfully to serve shifting market demands,” he said.
Africa’s strong performance was supported by robust intra-African trade and increased connectivity between Africa and Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Industry analysts attribute the growth to expanding manufacturing and logistics networks across key African economies, as well as the rising role of e-commerce and time-sensitive exports.
Globally, the air cargo market continues to strengthen, with total capacity up 3% compared to September 2024. The report highlighted that Asia-Pacific carriers grew 6.8%, while North American and Latin American airlines saw slight declines.
Despite global challenges — including tariff uncertainties and rising jet fuel prices — Africa’s double-digit growth underscores the region’s growing importance in the global cargo supply chain. As airlines continue to expand routes and invest in modern fleets, Africa’s air freight sector appears poised to sustain its upward momentum through the end of 2025.
