Air freight continues to operate in an international scenario marked by geopolitical uncertainty and rising logistics costs. Despite this, air cargo remains vital in sectors that need speed, flexibility and reliability in their international shipments.

In Spain, the first months of the year show that the sector continues to perform well, supported by foreign trade and the growth of e-commerce . Although some major air hubs are beginning to moderate their growth (Madrid-Barajas, Zaragoza and Barcelona-El Prat), the Spanish airport network continues to sustain good levels of activity.

The impact of current conflicts

The situation in the Middle East and the crisis caused by the war in the Strait of Hormuz is having a direct impact on global air cargo. According to data from the international organization IATA, global demand fell by 4.8% in March, while international operations declined by 5.5%, mainly affected by disruptions in the major Gulf hubs (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar).

In addition to the route diversions and airspace restrictions that have occurred in recent months, the industry is also suffering from a sharp increase in costs. The price of aviation fuel has risen by more than 100% year-on-year in March, putting further pressure on the profitability of airlines and logistics operators.

Despite this context, air cargo networks and logistics operators such as Operinter are demonstrating their ability to adapt to maintain international connectivity and guarantee rapid transport in strategic sectors.

The Spanish airport network

In Spain, air cargo continues to hold up despite the international context. Madrid-Barajas continues to lead domestic cargo traffic, although its growth through April moderated to figures close to 2%, with just over 260,000 tons accumulated.

Meanwhile, other airports continue to evolve more dynamically. Zaragoza continues to consolidate its position as one of the country’s major logisticshubs , thanks to its specialization in international cargo and distribution operations. Barcelona-El Prat also maintains a positive trend, driven by international traffic and high value-added goods.

Overall, the Spanish airport system is demonstrating a capacity for adaptation and balance, compensating for the slowdown in some large hubs with the good performance of other key infrastructures in the sector.