The global air cargo industry continues to evolve, driven by increasing demand for fast and reliable transportation of goods across the world. In 2025, the industry saw remarkable growth, with the top 25 cargo airlines achieving a combined 220,000 million FTK (Freight Tonne Kilometers), reflecting a year-over-year growth of 5.0%. This article provides an in-depth look at the leading players in the air cargo sector, highlighting their performance and contributions.
Top 25 Cargo Airlines of 2025
| Rank | Airline | 2025 FTK (million) | Year to Year Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Federal Express (FedEx) | 20,500 | +4.5 |
| 2 | Emirates | 15,200 | +3.2 |
| 3 | United Parcel Service (UPS) | 14,800 | +5.1 |
| 4 | Cathay Pacific Airways | 12,000 | +3.8 |
| 5 | Qatar Airways | 11,500 | +6.0 |
| 6 | Korean Air | 10,000 | +4.2 |
| 7 | Lufthansa | 9,800 | +4.0 |
| 8 | Cargolux | 9,200 | +5.5 |
| 9 | Singapore Airlines | 8,900 | +4.7 |
| 10 | Air China | 8,500 | +5.0 |
| 11 | China Southern Airlines | 7,900 | +5.2 |
| 12 | China Airlines | 7,600 | +4.8 |
| 13 | AirBridgeCargo Airlines | 6,800 | +6.5 |
| 14 | China Eastern Airlines | 6,400 | +3.7 |
| 15 | Etihad Airways | 6,200 | +4.0 |
| 16 | All Nippon Airways (ANA) | 6,000 | +5.0 |
| 17 | Polar Air Cargo | 5,700 | +3.9 |
| 18 | British Airways | 5,500 | +4.0 |
| 19 | Asiana Airlines | 5,200 | +4.3 |
| 20 | Turkish Airlines | 5,000 | +5.6 |
| 21 | KLM | 4,800 | +3.5 |
| 22 | United Airlines | 4,600 | +4.8 |
| 23 | EVA Air | 4,400 | +3.2 |
| 24 | Air France | 4,200 | +3.1 |
| 25 | LATAM Airlines Group | 4,000 | +4.5 |
Federal Express (FedEx)
Topping the list is FedEx, with an impressive 20,500 million FTK. Known for its global network and reliability, FedEx has maintained its dominance in the air cargo industry by leveraging advanced logistics solutions.
Emirates Airline
Emirates continues to excel, ranking second with 15,200 million FTK. Its strategic location in Dubai and state-of-the-art fleet contribute to its robust performance.
United Parcel Service (UPS)
UPS, a global logistics powerhouse, secured third place with 14,800 million FTK. Its focus on innovation and customer-centric services drives consistent growth.
Emerging Trends in Air Cargo
Increased Demand for E-Commerce: The rise of online shopping has significantly boosted the need for efficient air cargo services.
Technological Advancements: Airlines are adopting AI and IoT to optimize cargo operations and enhance efficiency.
Sustainability Initiatives: Many carriers are investing in eco-friendly practices to reduce their carbon footprint.
The air cargo industry is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by technological innovations and increasing global trade. The top 25 cargo airlines of 2025 have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, setting new benchmarks in the sector. As the demand for air freight continues to rise, these airlines are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Stay updated with the latest developments in the air cargo industry by exploring the official websites of these leading airlines through the links provided above.
