The Air Freight Market on the Rise

Freight rates are rising again, driven by the recovery of flows from Asia.

April 28, 2025

In the third week of March 2025, the air freight sector showed concrete signs of recovery on a global scale. According to data released by WorldAcd Market Data, average spot and contract rates recorded an increase, returning to levels similar to those at the beginning of the year and last summer. In particular, the Asian market is regaining momentum after the Chinese New Year break, positively impacting rates and traffic volumes.

Rate Increases Despite a Slight Decline in Volumes

In the week from March 17 to 23, global spot rates rose by 5%, while contract rates saw a 3% increase. The weighted average of the two grew by 3% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase occurred despite a slight reduction in the total volume of transported goods compared to the previous week, although on an annual basis, traffic remains up by 3%.

Asia Pacific Leads the Recovery

Asia Pacific confirms its role as the driving force of the recovery, with a 10% year-on-year increase in transported cargo volumes. Spot rates from this region recorded a 5% rise, with significant gains in key markets such as South Korea, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and China. Connections between Asia Pacific and the United States also benefited from this trend, marking the sixth consecutive increase in volumes and a 5% rise in spot rates.

A Market Moving Towards Stabilization

After months of uncertainty, air freight appears to be entering a phase of greater stability. The strong recovery of trade flows between China and the United States, combined with a return to more sustainable rate levels in previously turbulent markets, indicates a progressive rebalancing of the sector. However, geopolitical and seasonal factors will continue to influence market trends in the coming months.

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