IATA reports 'cautious optimism' in airfreight industry

IATA reported (14-Mar-2017) "a backdrop of cautious optimism for the global air cargo sector" with improved demand in 2H2016 following "several years of virtually no growth". Director general and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said the following "positive forces" are supporting growth: Strong export orders, e-commerce growing at a double digit rate and high value specialised cargo showing great potential. Mr de Juniac noted the global pharmaceuticals market is expected to reach USD1.12 trillion by 2022 "creating significant opportunity for air cargo". Mr de Juniac said airfreight remains "a very tough business" with yields under pressure and capacity growing as airlines take delivery of long haul passenger aircraft. [more - original PR] [more - original PR - II]