Courier volumes drive airfreight demand

E-commerce shipments and courier items are by far the biggest drivers of air cargo demand today, according to Airlink Cargo executive manager for ground operations Hardus Kuschke. “The most significant trend has been the rapid growth of e-commerce, especially from Asia, which we are seeing across our network. Similarly, we are seeing an uptick in demand for courier items, particularly on regional routes,” he told Freight News. Fresh produce, including cut flowers, fruit and wine, also remains in demand in domestic and regional markets. The airline is also seeing steady regional demand for small mining, machinery and automotive components, electronics, and other high-value, low-weight manufactured goods. According to Kuschke, the growth of e-commerce, accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, has been phenomenal and cannot be ignored. While the local market remains stable, Kuschke said regional demand continued to strengthen. “We are seeing growing regional demand, with volumes increasing year on year.” This growth is being supported by increasing trade across Airlink’s regional network, particularly in time-sensitive, high-value and low-weight cargo that is well suited to air transport. LV