Airports Council International (ACI) World has released preliminary 2024 data on global air cargo traffic, revealing a strong year of growth driven by surging e-commerce activity, disruptions in maritime shipping, and falling jet fuel prices.
According to the report, global air cargo volumes in 2024 surpassed 124 million metric tonnes, marking an 8.4% increase year-over-year and a 3.9% gain compared to 2019 levels.
The Top 10 busiest cargo airports, which account for nearly 26% of the world’s air cargo traffic, handled a combined 32.3 million metric tonnes in 2024. This represents a 9.3% increase from 2023 and a 9.5% rise compared to 2019, when the group moved 29.5 million tonnes.
Hong Kong International Airport retained its position as the world’s leading air cargo hub, followed closely by Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Memphis International Airport, further cementing their roles as critical global logistics centers.
ACI notes that air cargo activity continues to be heavily concentrated among major airports, underscoring their strategic importance in global trade and supply chain networks.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci said, “Amid global challenges, the resilience of the world’s busiest airports shines. These hubs are vital arteries of trade, commerce, and connectivity. As air travel grows, ACI World stands ready to support its members, ensuring the smooth flow of people and goods that drive global economic, social, and cultural progress.”
