The air cargo market is experiencing an expansion period, with optimistic projections for 2024. This trend applies both to the global scenario and to Brazil, driven by several factors, such as the growth of e-commerce and the globalization of the economy. The assessment was made by René Genofre, director of the Air Department of the Allog group, who spoke about the topic at a workshop held at Meeting Comex 2024. The event brought together international logistics executives from across the South in Joinville (SC).
In February this year, global demand for air freight increased by 11% compared to the same period last year. Tariffs tend to rise throughout the year and increasing handling capacity is not enough to reduce prices. “It is the law of supply and demand that defines prices, and today we are in a seller’s market”, points out René.
Before the pandemic, passenger planes carried 54% of all air cargo in the world. The health crisis, however, undermined this hegemony, with a reduction in the number of flights and an increase in demand for cargo transport. Currently, 43% of air cargo travels in the “belly” of passenger planes, highlighting the importance of this modality. Another 37% of cargo is transported by airline freighters, representing a significant share of the market. The remaining 20% of air cargo is handled by express companies, which meet a specific demand for speed and efficiency.
Dynamic scenario
René Genofre emphasizes, however, that the air cargo transportation market is constantly changing, with new technologies, challenges and opportunities emerging on the horizon. “Companies that want to remain competitive in this dynamic scenario need to keep up with trends, invest in innovations and adapt to changes”, he comments.
In his lecture, the executive analyzed the market and highlighted that 37% of global air cargo originates from the Asian continent. Last year, 53 million tons were moved by air. The numbers contribute to defining where airlines will invest in cargo movement.
Game changers in global air transport
René further adds that global air transport is constantly evolving, driven by several interconnected factors that shape the future of the industry. “Understanding these pivots for change is crucial for all industry stakeholders,” he says.
Growing concern about environmental preservation drives efforts towards sustainable fuels, greater flight efficiency and optimization of air traffic to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from aircraft. Noise pollution is also a key focus, with the development of new technologies for quieter engines, the definition of quiet zones and the implementation of noise mitigation measures for communities around airports. Furthermore, waste management on board and at airports requires innovative solutions for recycling, reuse and composting, minimizing the environmental impact of the sector.
Strict safety regulations
René adds that strict regulation of the transport of dangerous goods (DGR) is essential, requiring constant updates to standards and rigorous training for airport staff and crews. Extreme weather events such as storms, hurricanes and other phenomena require robust contingency plans, enhanced warning systems and resilient airport infrastructure to ensure safe operations.
Investigating accidents and incidents, promoting a culture of safety at all levels of the industry and ongoing training for pilots, crews and ground staff are also essential to preventing accidents and ensuring safe flights.
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