More than three-quarters of US airfreight forwarders say their operations are being disrupted by the conflict in the Middle East, according to a survey conducted by the Airforwarders Association (AfA).
The survey found that over 75% of members are experiencing some level of disruption, with 29% reporting a significant impact and 38% describing the effect as moderate.
Costs are also rising. More than 60% of respondents said they are seeing measurable increases, including 27% who reported significant cost escalation and 41% who cited moderate increases.
Brandon Fried, executive director of the Airforwarders Association, said the data shows a sector under sustained pressure from global events outside its control, where disruption, cost inflation and uncertainty are intensifying the daily operational burden.
Members identified rate volatility, flight cancellations, capacity constraints and longer transit times as the most common issues. They also pointed to growing customer service pressure and space embargoes as additional challenges.
Fried said forwarders are adapting in real time, but they need a stable operating environment if they are to keep goods moving efficiently.
This is the second survey the association has carried out this year. An earlier review also found that US tariffs were affecting the volumes handled by members.
Elsewhere this year, the AfA has called for a resolution to the shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security, which has been ongoing since 13 February, and urged policymakers to prioritise payment for Transportation Security Administration personnel to avoid further disruption to aviation operations.
Fried said ending uncertainty, whether operational or regulatory, is critical to maintaining the resilience and reliability of the air cargo sector.
