Air cargo capacity across the Middle East is currently operating at approximately 30% below pre-conflict levels as the regional situation enters its fifth week, according to Xeneta.
Despite rising costs, demand for airfreight remains resilient. Shippers continue to prioritize speed and reliability to protect market share and service commitments, keeping volumes steady for now.
However, the current disruption differs from past crises. Instead of acting as a pressure release for ocean freight congestion, the air cargo sector itself is bearing the brunt of the impact.
Key developments shaping the market:
- Capacity reductions of ~30% across the region
- Significant declines at major hubs: Doha (-77%), Dubai International (-57%), Dubai World Central (-59%), Bahrain (-99%), Kuwait (-100%)
- Capacity shifting toward alternative gateways such as Muscat and Jeddah
While elevated jet fuel costs have not yet softened demand, the longer-term outlook remains uncertain. A prolonged conflict combined with sustained fuel inflation could begin to weigh on volumes.
What this means for customers:
Short-term stability may persist, but tight capacity and shifting routings will continue to impact transit times, pricing, and overall network reliability.
Axxess continues to closely monitor developments to help you navigate evolving airfreight conditions.
Sources: Xeneta, Air Cargo News, Aevean