You are currently viewing Middle East Air Cargo Demand Grows 13% in 2024

Middle East Air Cargo Demand Grows 13% in 2024

Prime Highlights: 

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 13% increase in air cargo demand in 2024, driven by e-commerce and ocean freight restrictions. 

The growth aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Aviation Strategy, aiming to handle 4.5 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030. 

Overall global air cargo demand grew by 11.3% in 2024, with Middle Eastern airlines handling 13.6% of the global total. 

Key Background: 

Middle Eastern airlines experienced a notable 13% growth in air cargo demand in 2024, driven by the ongoing e-commerce boom and restrictions in global ocean freight, according to the latest report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This growth reflects the region’s strong position in global air cargo, with Middle Eastern carriers handling 13.6% of the world’s international air cargo in 2024. 

The expansion of the Middle East aviation sector is closely linked to economic diversification efforts in the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia. As part of its National Aviation Strategy, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce its dependency on oil revenues and increase cargo handling capacity to 4.5 million tonnes annually by 2030. Additionally, the Kingdom plans to expand its network, with over 250 direct flight destinations to international markets from its airports. 

Globally, air cargo demand surged by 11.3% in 2024, as international trade and e-commerce continued to drive growth. However, the year was not without challenges. Attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea and increased tensions in the region led to a 22% drop in the number of ships passing through the Suez Canal in 2023-2024. As a result, shipping companies were forced to reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, resulting in delivery delays of 10 days or more. 

Despite these issues, the air cargo sector saw profitable growth, with yields remaining exceptionally high due to constrained airspace and long-haul route capacity, particularly to Asia. The Middle East also benefited from a 5.5% increase in air cargo capacity in 2024. Looking ahead, IATA projects global air cargo demand to grow by 5.8% in 2025, supported by favorable economic conditions and continued trade growth. However, the industry faces challenges posed by geopolitical developments that could impact trade dynamics.