AIR CARG O WEEK


WEEKLY NEWS Voice Of The Industry BY International Forwarders & Customs Brokers Association of Australia Ltd


A MARKET AT A CROSSROADS


AUSTRALIA’S air freight sector has entered a period of stagnation and transition. After several years marked by global upheaval, supply chain shifts, and surging eCommerce demand, 2025 data shows that freight volumes have softened significantly compared with earlier peaks. Yet, at the same time, infrastructure investment, new airline entrants, and regulatory evolution point to an industry preparing for long-term growth. Quarterly air freight volumes between 2021 Q1 and 2025 Q3 reveal an overall decline back to early-2021 levels.


Despite an early-2025 upswing, volumes fell to 0.09M tons by 2025 Q3. Exports followed a similar trajectory, decreasing from 0.45M tons in 2021 to 0.33M tons in 2025 Q3. Sydney and Melbourne remain the powerhouse ports for both imports and exports. Sydney, in particular, stands


out as the country’s central hub for air cargo, supported by dense population, business concentration, and the need for rapid, high-value freight solutions. Although many global carriers operate in Australia, most rely on passenger aircraft with limited cargo capacity.


Dedicated freighter services—operated by Qantas Freight, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and major eCommerce players—form the backbone of regular cargo operations. Infrastructure expansion continues across the country. Melbourne Airport is preparing to construct a third


runway, while Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) will open in late 2026 with 24/7 operations, supported by new distribution hubs and growing airline interest. Australia maintains one of the world’s strictest air-cargo security environments. All export cargo must be


screened, and businesses must hold appropriate accreditation—Known Consignor (KC), Accredited Air Cargo Agent (AACA), or Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RACA)—depending on their role in the supply chain. Despite flat short-term performance, long-term investment, new routes, and expanding infrastructure position Australian air freight for a stronger future.


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www.aircargoweek.com


02 MARCH 2026 ACW


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