AIR CARG O WEEK


WEEKLY NEWS


DATA DRIVES LOGISTICS


05


BY Edward HARDY


WORLDACD has recently introduced volumetric metrics alongside enhanced forecasting tools, providing operators with a more precise understanding of market movements amid a growing demand for detailed, reliable data as airlines and related stakeholders face increasing operational and policy uncertainty. “The introduction of volumetric data earlier this year has been a big success,” Rogier Blocq, Head of


Product Development at World ACD, said. “It gives customers visibility not just into weight load factors but also volumetric patterns, which often peak differently. This additional metric is crucial for airlines to steer their business under volatile conditions.” The rate spread feature, already available to customers, has allowed operators to see variability


rather than fixed yield values, helping them assess pricing strategies more dynamically. Later this year, forecasting tools are expected to launch, providing insights two quarters ahead in terms of volumes and quantities, supporting longer-term planning. Industry stakeholders are responding positively


to these enhanced data sets, reflecting an


increasing need for transparency. “Our weekly data allows customers to track trends in real time,” he explained. “With tariffs and operational conditions changing rapidly, timely insights from primary sources are critical. Volumetric data adds another dimension that was missing in traditional weight- based systems, helping operators anticipate capacity constraints and demand shifts.”


Reshaping decision-making The operational advantages of comprehensive market coverage is clear, with WorldACD aggregating data from over 115 airlines, representing roughly 90 percent of global air cargo volumes outside integrators. This scale enables a more granular understanding of trends and patterns, providing operators with a higher-resolution view of market dynamics than many competing systems. “Not many providers bring volumetric data at this level,” Blocq said. “With our database, the


intelligence we provide is both granular and broadly representative. Customers can rely on it for decision-making across multiple markets.” The depth and breadth of the data allow airlines and related parties to model risk more accurately, particularly when flows shift due to external factors such as tariffs or geopolitical events. “We clearly


see market growth in demand for insights,” Blocq noted. “This year, we have signed up five new airlines and expect more. Stakeholders across the aviation ecosystem, from airlines to airports, want to understand trends, even if they change overnight. It allows them to perform better risk assessments and anticipate flow changes.” The operational value of detailed, frequent data extends to forecasting and planning. Volumetric


insights and load factor analysis provide earlier warnings than traditional weight-based measures, giving airlines a practical edge in managing both capacity and pricing. “By tracking trends closely, operators can anticipate opportunities and risks more accurately,” he said.


Neutral, reliable data A core principle in WorldACD’s approach is neutrality. While the system aggregates large datasets from diverse sources, the company applies strict formatting and verification standards to ensure reliability. “We stick to facts and figures,” Blocq said. “All data comes from our customers and is checked for consistency. Each data field has a clearly defined format, which reduces reliance on interpretation and ensures comparability.” The combination of weekly and monthly data sets offers both timeliness and granularity. Weekly reports


provide current trend analysis, while monthly data offers deeper insights and allows historical comparison. Blocq explained the complementary nature of the datasets: “Weekly data gives a strong indication of where the market is heading, while monthly data provides more granular detail. Customers can answer more complex questions with monthly data, while weekly reports guide immediate operational decisions.” This dual-frequency approach is particularly useful in volatile markets. Accurate and frequent


reporting supports not only tactical responses but also strategic planning in uncertain conditions. “The quality and reliability of data are essential,” he said. “Operators can trust that the insights reflect reality, not interpretation. This supports decision-making across operational, commercial, and strategic functions, including risk management, capacity planning, and market analysis.” Beyond operational utility, broader market implications include improved forecasting of airfreight


flows and a better understanding of tariff impacts. “With consistent, neutral data, operators can anticipate how flows react to external pressures and identify new patterns in advance,” Blocq said. “This is increasingly critical as trade and regulatory environments evolve rapidly.”


www.aircargoweek.com 02 FEBRUARY 2026 ACW


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