Global Air Freight Rates Hold at $3.55 per Kilogram as Asia-Pacific Export Rates Decline 3%

Global air freight spot rates remained stable at $3.55 per kilogram in Week 41 of 2026, according to WorldACD data cited in the report. Global air cargo rates recorded a third consecutive week of decline, with a further 1% week-on-week decrease. Despite this downward trend, overall pricing remains above the levels recorded during the same period last year, reflecting ongoing market adjustments and regional differences in air cargo demand.

The decline in global air freight rates has been influenced primarily by lower rates from China, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan, where holiday-related factors have affected cargo demand and shipping activity. These developments highlight the seasonal nature of international air freight, as changes in production schedules, export volumes, and available capacity can influence spot pricing. For shippers, monitoring regional rate movements remains essential when planning international shipments and managing transportation budgets.

In the Asia-Pacific region, origin air freight spot rates fell by 3% week on week to $4.83 per kilogram, indicating a more pronounced correction than the global average. Rates from Asia-Pacific and Central and South America also experienced downward pressure, although the extent of the decline varied by trade lane. These regional differences underline the importance of evaluating specific origin-destination routes, cargo characteristics, and delivery requirements rather than relying solely on global average freight rates.

At the same time, WorldACD noted that disruptions in certain markets have contributed to higher fuel surcharges, providing some support for freight pricing. For international businesses and cross-border e-commerce sellers, the latest developments emphasize the importance of comparing air, ocean, and other transportation options according to shipment urgency, cargo volume, and total logistics costs. As market conditions continue to evolve, businesses should closely monitor freight rate changes and coordinate with logistics providers to improve shipping efficiency and cost management.