Handbook for the Development of Air Transport : Chapter 6 - Air Cargo

Overview & Synopsis

This chapter examines the role of air cargo within the global freight transport system, comparing it with maritime, rail, road, pipeline, and intermodal transport. Although air cargo represents less than one percent of global trade volume, it accounts for approximately 35 percent of trade value due to its speed, reliability, and security. Air transport is especially important for high-value, time-sensitive, and perishable goods, including pharmaceuticals, electronics, automotive parts, and fresh produce. The chapter highlights the cost tradeoff between air and ocean transport, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on cargo capacity and rates, and the growing influence of e-commerce on air cargo demand and distribution networks.