Europe’s airports saw a small fall in air freight volumes in July, according to figures released by ACI EUROPE, but leading cargo hubs are continuing to strengthen their role in global supply chains.
The trade body, which represents more than 500 airports across the continent, reported a 1.5% decline in freight traffic compared with July 2024. EU+ airports recorded a 2% drop, while those outside the bloc bucked the trend with growth of just over 2%. Even so, freight volumes remain more than 10% higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Hubs hold their ground
Among Europe’s busiest freight gateways, Belgium’s Liège Airport recorded the strongest increase, with volumes up 14.4% year-on-year. Madrid (+8.9%) and Milan Malpensa (+7.6%) also posted solid growth, suggesting that demand for southern European cargo routes is expanding.
By contrast, traditional northern hubs such as Frankfurt, Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol faced a flatter performance, reflecting softer global trade flows and ongoing capacity constraints. Analysts say shifting supply chains, the growth of e-commerce, and demand for specialised handling are creating opportunities for smaller airports to carve out niches.
Aircraft activity increases
Aircraft movements across Europe rose by 2.9% in July, highlighting steady demand for both passenger and cargo flights. Industry experts note that while freight volumes slipped slightly, continued growth in aircraft operations shows carriers are still deploying capacity to meet long-term market needs.
Global context
The dip in July freight comes against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty, fluctuating fuel prices and cooling consumer demand in parts of Europe. Yet the sector has proved resilient. Cargo demand on Asia–Europe corridors remains strong, particularly for pharmaceuticals, perishables and high-value goods.
Logistics analysts point out that airports such as Liège have benefitted from their focus on express cargo and e-commerce, while southern hubs like Madrid and Milan are increasingly important gateways for Latin American and African markets.
Supply chain role
The figures underline the strategic importance of European airports in global trade. Despite softer demand in some markets, Europe remains a critical transit point for intercontinental shipments, with its airports providing the infrastructure and connectivity needed to keep supply chains moving.
ACI EUROPE said the latest results highlight the sector’s ability to adapt, with diversification of markets and operational efficiency helping offset wider economic pressures.
