The International Air Transport Association (IATA) just released data for global air freight markets showing that demand (in FTKs) grew by 3.8% in 2016 compared to 2015. The market has nearly doubled the industry’s average growth rate of 2.0% over the last five years, but capacity (in available freight tonne kilòmetres), increased by 5.3% in 2016, which means that demand exceeds capacity.

"In terms of demand, 2016 was a good year for air cargo. That was boosted by solid year-end performance. Looking ahead, strong export orders are good news. But there are headwinds. The most significant is stagnant world trade, which also faces the risk of protectionist measures. Governments must not forget that trade is a powerful tool for growth and prosperity," said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

The need for digital processes

"The air cargo industry must also improve its competitiveness. We know that the way forward is defined by digital processes which will drive efficiency and improve customer satisfaction. We must use the momentum of renewed demand growth to drive the important innovations of the e-cargo vision," said de Juniac.

Air Freight Solution is a key development done by GTD that is being launched in Barcelona precisely to promote efficiency in the local freight community. The idea is to integrate processes between truckers, handling agents and forwarders. Participants of the digital solution believe this to be key, not just to make every individual company more competitive, but also to make Barcelona Airport more attractive. Air Freight Solution will soon also be available in Madrid Airport.

Source: GPA based on IATA press release.