Global air cargo demand rose 6.0% year-on-year in May 2026, with international demand climbing 6.5%. Cargo capacity increased 1.9% overall, while international capacity grew 2.8%. Africa led regional performance at +13.3%, followed by North America (+10.5%), Asia-Pacific (+8.0%), and Europe (+6.7%). The Middle East contracted 8.9% due to war-related disruptions affecting Gulf-linked corridors. Asia-North America trade lane drove growth, trailed by Africa-Asia, intra-Europe, and Europe-Asia. Willie Walsh, IATA director general, noted above-trend growth across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America. The sector faces operational strain from Middle East instability, yet strong trade-lane momentum persists. No wider industry forecast beyond May’s snapshot is available.