Global air freight is gradually entering a new phase of maturity, marked by a more rigorous selection of flows, clients, and routes. After a period when capacity was sold at high prices in a context of strong tension, industry players are now adjusting their strategies with greater discernment.
Airlines and cargo operators are looking to prioritize profitable volumes rather than systematically filling their holds. This approach results in a strengthening of contractual agreements with freight forwarders and major shippers, to the detriment of the spot market, which is considered more volatile.
At the same time, digitalization and pricing transparency are changing the balance of power. Shippers now have more tools to compare offers, while companies use data to better anticipate demand and adjust their networks.
In this context, air freight tends to reposition itself as a targeted logistics tool, reserved for high-value, urgent, or critical goods. This structural evolution could sustainably redefine the role of air cargo in global supply chains, as a complement — and not in direct competition — with maritime and land modes.
