Liege Airport has kicked off 2026 on a strong note, reporting solid growth in both cargo volumes and aircraft movements during the first quarter. Between January and March, the Belgian airport handled 342,845 tonnes of airfreight, representing a 15.6% increase compared with the same period last year. Aircraft movements also rose by 7% to reach 7,247.
The momentum continued in March alone, when cargo volumes climbed 11% year on year and aircraft movements improved by 9%.
According to the airport, exports were a major contributor to first-quarter performance, rising by 20% compared with the same period in 2025. Growth was driven in particular by e-commerce, perishables and broader international logistics flows.
Liege also said that traffic in January and February benefited significantly from an increase in Emirates SkyCargo freighter frequencies operating through the airport.
Despite these encouraging figures, the airport remains cautious about the months ahead. In a statement, Liege Airport said the international environment continues to be uncertain and volatile, with geopolitical tensions — especially in the Middle East — directly affecting logistics flows and the wider balance of the air transport sector.
The airport pointed to a range of contradictory pressures shaping the market, including sharply rising air cargo spot rates, higher jet fuel costs, the risk of an energy crisis, inflationary pressures and ongoing airspace restrictions.
Liege warned that current growth could shift quickly if fuel prices continue to rise. Chief executive Laurent Jossart said the airport is therefore taking a measured approach for the rest of the year. While the overall outlook remains positive, he noted that 2026 is likely to remain a year of rapid adjustments and demanding market conditions. For that reason, the airport intends to move forward with vigilance while maintaining reasoned confidence in the continuation of its growth trajectory.
