Demand in global air freight markets was up 8% in January by comparison to 2016, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Demand was measured in Freight Tonne Kilometres (FTKs). Capacity, which is measured in available freight tonne kilometres, was up by 4.2% in the same period.

In a statement issued yesterday (7 March), Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO, said: “With 8% growth in January, it’s been a solid start to 2018 for air cargo. That follows an exceptional year in which demand grew by 9%. We expect demand for air cargo to taper to a more normal 4.5% growth rate for 2018. But there are potential headwinds. If President Trump follows through on his promise to impose sanctions on aluminum and steel imports, there is a very real risk of a trade war. Nobody wins when protectionist measures escalate.”