DHL predicts low air freight demand but rising capacity

As per DHL’s recent Airfreight State of the Industry report, demand for air freight is still low, but capacity is rising. The report cites few factors for the poor demand, including inflation and diminished spending power. Despite “remaining softer” volumes, they are stable after the highest reduction witnessed in July. The impact of e-commerce on air cargo volumes is “mild but persistent”. However, DHL Global Forwarding stated in a LinkedIn post about the research that a volume rise during the approaching peak season is unlikely because of the report’s low export orders and high inventories. Additionally, the Ukraine-Russia war continues to impact the industry, while improving conditions in sea freight is reducing demand for airfreight.