The air cargo business, through its entire value chain, is an essential part of European prosperity as it enables global trade. By facilitating the fast, reliable and secure movement of goods across borders, air cargo sustains seamless supply chains and contributes to the development of economic networks which no other form of transport can provide. Industry globalisation and growing consumer demand for air cargo services puts Europe at the intersection of global trade, with the value of goods transported via air exceeding 5.6 trillion euros ($6.2 trillion) in 2018 globally.

The majority of A4E members have air cargo and mail activities. Although it represents 2.6% in trade volumes, European air cargo accounts for nearly 30% of exports and 21% of imports in value, turning the industry into a crucial enabler of economic activity throughout the continent and far beyond. Operations span over 360 destinations which are often served by multiple airlines. In total, more than 60 freighters and 1,600 passenger aircraft transport some 5 million tons of freight every year. As such, the air passenger and air cargo businesses depend on one another; where the amount of cargo is not enough for a freighter service, it is transported in the belly of a passenger aircraft.

Key priorities:

• Implement EU measures to ensure more efficient and seamless air cargo;
• Encourage EU support for innovation and digitalisation within air cargo;
• Promote incentives to ensure the sustainable growth of the sector.