US airlines delivered mixed cargo performances in the first quarter of 2026 as market conditions remained challenging amid the continuing conflict in the Middle East.
United Cargo saw revenue fall by 1.6% year on year to $422 million, down from $429 million in the first quarter of 2025.
During the quarter, United transported more than 322 million pounds of cargo, including nearly 9 million pounds of medical shipments and 257,000 pounds of military cargo.
The airline is also responding to higher operating costs. On April 18, United announced a new “Market Disruption Fee” for freight shipments with airway bills issued on or after May 1. The fee will be based on shipment chargeable weight.
United said the measure reflects the increased cost of doing business globally, including higher costs from suppliers, partners and wider market conditions. The airline added that it will continue to monitor the situation and adjust the fee if needed.
American Airlines performed more strongly, with cargo operating revenue rising 12.9% to $214 million and cargo ton miles increasing 9%.
Delta also reported growth, with cargo operating revenue up 9% to $226 million.
The results come as WorldACD data shows global airfreight tonnage fell 4% year on year in March. Xeneta has also warned that rising fuel prices could weigh on air cargo demand.
