Airfreight rates remain flat on transpacific route in September: TAC Index

According to the latest figures from the Baltic Exchange Airfreight Index (BAI) calculated by TAC Index, airfreight rates on the transpacific market were largely flat in September but are expected to pick up as the peak season approaches and as US port strikes are now underway. The report shows rates from Hong Kong to North America in September edged up by $0.02 compared with August to $5.98 per kg. Meanwhile, from Hong Kong to Europe prices in September were up $0.23 cents compared with August to $4.66 per kg. The flat rates come as prices around August and September tend to be fairly steady as the industry prepares for the busier fourth-quarter peak season. This year there have also been reports of a slower than expected air cargo market during the month. Data provider WorldACD also noted a cooling of the air cargo market in September as figures were affected by the one-day mid-Autumn festival in many east Asian countries.