Airfreight capacity across the Middle East has declined sharply since the Israel-Iran conflict began, leading to a global reduction in available space. According to data provider Rotate’s database, widebody capacity for both belly and freighter has fallen by 100% in Iran and Syria. Iraq is down by -84%, Israel by -78%, Jordan by -43%, and Lebanon by -40%.
Demand for shipments into the region has nearly vanished with charter services reporting no requests, even for humanitarian aid, due to elevated security risks. Major carriers, such as Lufthansa Cargo, have suspended operations to key cities such as Tel Aviv, Amman, Erbil, and Beirut.
Kim Ekstroem, Global COO, Air at Shipco Transport, confirms a significant number of cancellations into the region. He expects that this trend will continue, stating, “As the demand from passengers is expected to subside further, we anticipate an increase in cancellations, which will create a cargo backlog in the region.”
Ekstroem cautions that even if an airline services a destination, they may only accept cargo at ‘priority’ or similar services. He advises checking in with logistics partners who are monitoring the situation closely.
“Given that the situation is fluid, it’s important to check in with your service providers for the latest updates. They are best positioned to provide current information and practical guidance to ensure your shipments remain safe and continue to move,” he says.
The conflict has also forced longer flight paths. The Loadstar reports WorldACD data showing a -9% decline in tonnage from the Middle East and South Asia (MESA) region, following an -8% drop the previous week. Intra-MESA volumes fell -26%, while tonnage to Africa decreased -17%.
Levant-area nations accounted for 12% of the global tonnage drop, with South Asia also impacted—Bangladesh down -43% and Pakistan down -30%.
Despite regional volatility, the UAE and Qatar experienced minor capacity reductions of -6% and -2%, respectively, and reported growth in exports to West Africa and Kenya. Turkey and Saudi Arabia posted modest gains in available capacity.
Globally, freighter capacity dropped 2%, though Trans-Pacific and Trans-Atlantic lanes showed resilience. Asia – North America capacity rose by 4%, and Trans-Atlantic Westbound traffic increased by 6%.
Source: The Loadstar, Shipco Transport