From digital innovation to geopolitical shifts, sustainability imperatives, and the explosive growth of e-commerce, the airfreight landscape is set for another year of development in 2025.

Digital transformation

The march toward digitalisation continues to be a defining trend with the transformative impact of AI, blockchain, and real-time data integration in the spotlight.

“The industry is rapidly moving toward full digitalisation,” Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, noted. “Tools like Apollo and Quantum are enhancing operational efficiencies and data-driven decision-making. GSA models must evolve to integrate advanced technologies, enabling smarter and more seamless interactions across the supply chain.”

Michael Teoh, Head of Strategy at CargoTech, echoed this sentiment: “We see a much higher willingness to implement and maximise the potential use of technology in the logistics sector. Customers want flexibility in their choices of technology solutions, enabling organisations to deliver desired outcomes.” Technological advancements such as IoT and predictive analytics are already reshaping operations.

Sean Harding, President of ATA, highlighted the growing adoption of sensors for real-time monitoring, particularly in specialised segments like animal transport. “IoT devices and sensors are ensuring better welfare during transit by monitoring temperature, humidity, and movement in real-time,” he explained.

The widespread implementation of IATA’s ONE Record standard also holds promise. Michael Zach, SVP of Ground Handling & Cargo Operations at Vienna Airport, described it as “a potential game-changer,” streamlining airfreight documentation and enabling greater efficiency and transparency.

Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, CEO of Jettainer, also highlighted the broader implications of digitalisation: “As ONE Record becomes standard, we expect to see significant shifts in efficiency, transparency, and real-time operational management, marking a new era in cargo logistics.”

e-commerce

e-commerce remains a cornerstone of growth despite challenges like fluctuating demand and regulatory pressures. Wilson Kwong, Chief Executive of Hactl, noted: “e-commerce is likely to continue its growth, even in light of the US de minimis clampdown. Retailing continues to move away from the high street, and shopping from home still has further potential to convert sales.”

Social commerce, driven by platforms like Instagram and TikTok, is also shaping logistics demands. Duncan Heron, VP at DHL Express UK, expects a rise in smaller, high-volume parcels to require tailored logistics solutions. “Three out of four consumers now actively use social platforms for purchasing decisions. This trend necessitates logistics solutions that are flexible, reliable, and responsive.”

Emir Pineda, Director at Miami-Dade Aviation Department, highlighted regional dynamics: “Miami continues to thrive as a key distribution hub, servicing the Americas and capitalising on e-commerce trends. With increasing nearshoring activities, the role of regional hubs in supporting cross-border e-commerce cannot be understated.”

Frédéric Brun adds an essential perspective: “Innovations in customs processes and last-mile delivery are critical to sustaining the growth of cross-border e-commerce. These developments will define the sector’s trajectory into 2025.”

Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s imperative. The adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), electric ground handling equipment, and carbon tracking technologies is accelerating.

“The pressure to meet environmental targets will intensify in 2025,” Frédéric Brun, Head of Commercial Cargo & Logistics, observed. “Airports positioned as multimodal hubs will see increased demand, especially as cost-effective and sustainable options gain traction.”

Yassine Berrada, VP Cargo at Royal Air Maroc, shared actionable steps: “Royal Air Maroc Cargo is expanding solar power initiatives across facilities to significantly reduce carbon emissions. Infrastructure investments and workforce expansion are critical to achieving our sustainability goals.” Heron highlighted growing consumer awareness as a driver for companies: “Our recent research found that 73% of online shoppers want to know about the CO2 emissions of their deliveries. This demand is pushing businesses to adopt greener practices across sourcing, packaging, and shipping.” Chris Bode, VP at Rhenus Air & Ocean, emphasiseed logistics’ pivotal role: “The adoption of green-certified facilities and renewable energy infrastructure is crucial for meeting global sustainability goals while maintaining operational excellence.”

Geopolitical and economic dynamics

Geopolitical tensions and economic realignments remain critical factors influencing airfreight. Leaders are particularly attuned to developments in US-China trade relations and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Geopolitical tensions and trade realignments will continue to shape cargo flow patterns,” remarks Colin Charnock, CEO of Trans Global Projects. “This necessitates adaptable strategies to navigate shifting trade dynamics.”

Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, pointed to humanitarian cargo as an emerging area: “Reconstruction efforts in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, Ukraine, and Sudan will result in additional volumes of humanitarian cargo.” Meanwhile, trade policy changes, including potential tariffs, are driving shifts in supply chain strategies. Emir Pineda explains, “If China leans more heavily into nearshoring, the Americas—and hubs like Miami—will play pivotal roles as distribution centers.” Wilson Kwong offers a broader perspective: “The long-term implications of geopolitical crises will drive diversification in trade routes, potentially reshaping global logistics landscapes.”

Capacity challenges

Capacity constraints and freight rate fluctuations are expected to persist. Airlines must balance passenger and cargo demand while addressing peak-period volatility. Charnock highlighted the role of dedicated freighters: “The industry will continue to face fluctuating freight capacity and rates. Airlines must invest in dedicated freighters to manage these fluctuations effectively.”

Freight rate volatility is also driving innovation in pricing models. Brun predicted the rise of dynamic pricing: “Dynamic pricing models will become essential, allowing shippers and carriers to adjust rates based on real-time supply and demand.” Zach added: “The ability to predict and manage rate volatility using AI-driven tools will become a core competency for successful operators in 2025.”

Emerging markets

Emerging markets such as Southeast Asia, Africa, and Latin America are becoming increasingly integral to global supply chains. “The expansion of air cargo hubs in these regions will enhance connectivity and provide efficient cargo movement,” Charnock asserted. Royal Air Maroc is already capitalising on these opportunities. “We are actively working to expand service offerings in key emerging markets,” Berrada said.

“Enhancing connectivity in these regions is critical to meeting increased demand.” Chris Bode, VP at Rhenus, added, “Emerging markets present significant growth opportunities. Regions like Africa and Southeast Asia are becoming increasingly important for global trade, driving demand for new air freight connections.” Brun emphasised multimodal integration: “The increasing integration of air, rail, and road freight in these markets will further streamline supply chains and reduce costs.”

Pharma and cold chain logistics

Pharma logistics is poised for continued growth, driven by advancements in healthcare and global accessibility initiatives. “The demand for cold chain solutions, especially for pharmaceuticals and vaccines, will increase,” Charnock said. “This will drive the adaptation of specialised aircraft and facilities for temperature-sensitive shipments.” Bode emphasises the sector’s critical role: “Pharmaceuticals require careful handling, strict temperature controls, and quick delivery. This makes air freight indispensable for the sector’s logistics.”

Radhesh Menon of IBS Software added, “As healthcare logistics grows, the industry will need to adopt advanced digital tools to manage the complexity of cold chain requirements and regulatory compliance.” Zach sees potential in automation: “Cold chain logistics will increasingly rely on automated systems for monitoring and compliance, ensuring consistent quality throughout the supply chain.” Automation and innovation Automation and AI-driven solutions are becoming integral to operational efficiency. Dr. Breithaupt explained how “digitalisation and automation solutions will mark the beginning of a new era. ONE Record, in particular, will transform cargo management.”

Zach highlighted the importance of automation in warehouses: “Autonomous transports and automated systems will redefine efficiency in cargo operations, making them faster and more cost-effective.” Thominet emphasised technology’s role: “Innovative tools from CargoTech’s ecosystem are enabling unprecedented precision and efficiency across the airfreight landscape.” As the airfreight industry navigates toward 2025, resilience, innovation, and collaboration emerge as key themes.