Global air cargo volumes rose 6% year on year in October 2026 and 5% from September, according to preliminary WorldACD market data. The average spot rate reached $3.67/kg, 37% higher than a year ago.
- From Europe: volumes up 4%, spot rates up 8% from September and 35% year on year.
- China and Hong Kong to Europe: volumes down 17% year on year, while the rate rose 9% from September to $4.85/kg.
- Capacity: in the first week of the winter schedule, airlines cut belly capacity most on transatlantic and intra-European routes.
WorldACD links the drop in China–Europe volumes to a shift away from small e-commerce parcels after EU import rule changes, including a €2 per-item handling fee from 1 November. It expects worldwide volumes to grow about 6% in the fourth quarter, with high fuel surcharges.
What this means for shippers
Air exports from Finland and the rest of Europe are now clearly more expensive than a year ago, and space is tighter on some routes during the winter schedule. Book early in the peak season and compare air with sea or rail where transit time allows. We confirm current rates and surcharges in every quote.
Source: Asian Aviation / WorldACD.