Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) has once again claimed the crown as the world’s leading cargo airport in 2024, according to the latest Airports Council International (ACI) World Airport Traffic Dataset. With a remarkable 14.1% year-on-year surge in cargo volumes, HKG solidifies its position as a global logistics powerhouse.
The airport’s success is underpinned by significant investments in cargo infrastructure and the transition to a three-runway operation at the close of last year. This expansion has unlocked the capacity to handle an impressive 10 million tons of cargo annually, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and scale.
Shanghai Climbs, Memphis Slips
Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) made a strong leap into second place, up from third in 2023, thanks to a 9.8% year-on-year increase in cargo volumes. Meanwhile, Memphis International Airport (MEM) saw its ranking dip to third, with a 3.3% decline in volumes.
Other notable movers include Dubai International Airport (DXB), which soared from 17th to 11th place with a staggering 20.5% growth, and Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), climbing from 18th to 14th after a 14.1% increase. On the flip side, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) experienced the steepest drop, sliding from 14th to 20th following a 10.8% decline in cargo volumes.
Global Air Cargo Defies Economic Headwinds
Despite global economic challenges, air cargo demonstrated remarkable resilience in 2024. ACI reported a 9.9% year-on-year increase in global air cargo volumes, reaching nearly 127 million metric tonnes. The top 20 cargo hubs alone handled 52.2 million tonnes, marking a 9% rise from 2023 and a 10.8% increase over pre-pandemic levels.
Key growth drivers included disruptions in maritime shipping routes, which pushed shippers toward faster and more reliable air freight options, the continued boom in e-commerce demanding rapid cross-border fulfillment, and declining jet fuel costs that enhanced air freight’s competitiveness.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci summed it up best: “These rankings reflect the scale of global aviation and the resilience of the industry that continues to grow, despite the complex worldwide environment.”
The numbers don’t lie—air cargo is soaring to new heights.
© Rebecca Jeffrey for AirCargoNews