African airlines expanded cargo capacity by 6.2% in June 2025 despite a 3.9% drop in air freight demand, IATA said in its latest report.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) noted that the increase in capacity reflects fleet and network adjustments across the continent’s major carriers.
According to the report, African carriers outperformed several regions in capacity growth even as global air cargo demand showed mixed trends due to economic pressures.
“This capacity growth shows resilience, especially given the weakening demand globally,” IATA stated via its official release on X.
African airlines accounted for a marginal share of the global air cargo market but continue to adjust routes to meet regional and international logistics shifts.
The drop in demand is linked to weak global trade, slower manufacturing output, and declining cross-border shipments across major economies.
Industry stakeholders cited fleet modernization, route expansion, and strategic cargo partnerships as driving factors behind the capacity growth.
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IATA emphasized that the region’s air cargo capacity rose year-on-year while maintaining operational stability despite macroeconomic challenges.
Freight load factors declined slightly as supply outpaced demand, reflecting an ongoing recalibration between market needs and operational expansion.
Several African hubs, including Addis Ababa and Nairobi, recorded stable cargo throughput, supported by improvements in handling infrastructure.
Analysts say the mismatch between capacity and demand may pressure yields, but carriers are focused on long-term market positioning.
Regional carriers continue to invest in freighters and digital logistics systems to enhance efficiency and reduce reliance on passenger belly cargo.
IATA warned that persistent inflation, high interest rates, and geopolitical tensions could keep demand subdued in the coming months.
The association recommended that African airlines align capacity growth with realistic market forecasts to avoid overexposure.
Despite near-term risks, industry observers expect gradual improvement in cargo demand as global trade rebounds in late 2025.
The full IATA report underscores the strategic role of Africa’s cargo networks in supporting intra-continental trade under the AfCFTA framework.
