Air Freight Slowdown Continues - Several Regions in Decline

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing a slowdown in growth for air cargo demand in June. Air freight volumes measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTK) rose just 1.2% compared to a year ago. This is consistent with falling trade activity and weaker than expected global growth.

Regional performance varied widely. Asia-Pacific, North American and Latin American carriers reported year-on-year declines (-0.3%, -3.3%, and -1.6% respectively) while European carriers reported that markets were flat. This was offset by the strong performance of Middle Eastern (+15.3%) and African (+6.7%) carriers to keep growth in positive territory. 

The general trend of a weaker 2015 compared to 2014 can be seen in the half-year data. Air freight markets expanded by 5.8% in 2014; however year-to-date growth for 2015 stands at 3.5%.

Qatar Airways Cargo Launches Express Airfreight Service Door-to-Door

Qatar Airways Cargo will launch an express airfreight service for door-to-door and time-critical shipments. The new QR On-Board Courier service will be rolled out across the cargo carrier’s global network on 1 August 2015, enabling customers to book time-definite airfreight delivery solutions.

QR On-Board Courier will provide bespoke transportation services, which meet customers’ specific requirements, with dedicated couriers accompanying each shipment from collection to delivery direct to the recipient, the carrier said.

The Qatar Airways Cargo team will provide a comprehensive booking service for customers from flight reservations to entry requirements and customs regulations anywhere in the world. The maximum level of security will also be provided for customers’ courier shipments. and customers will be able to track the real-time progress of their shipment at any time by using the online tracking system and customers will be able to track the real-time progress of their shipment at any time by using the online tracking system.