Asian air cargo carriers continued their strong start to the year in February, while there is optimism for the coming months.
February traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) show that cargo increased by 7.3% year on year in February to 5bn freight tonne kms.
Over the first two months demand is up by 8.2% compared with a year earlier to 10.7bn freight tonne kms.
The average international freight load factor for February of 59.5% was 0.5 percentage points lower than the same month last year.
AAPA director general Andrew Herdman said: “Robust manufacturing activity boosted air cargo volumes, with Asian airlines registering an encouraging 8.2% increase in air cargo demand during the first two months of the year.
"The ongoing positive global economic momentum provides continued optimism for further expansion in the aviation markets in the coming months.
“Nevertheless, the recent rise in protectionist rhetoric poses some risks to trade and business activity. Overall, Asian airlines continue to exercise vigilance in identifying any further changes in operating conditions, whilst seeking opportunities in growth markets."
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