Restricted airspace in the Middle East impacts global air transport

       Affected by the ongoing tension in the Middle East and the implementation of airspace restrictions in multiple countries, the global air cargo network has suffered a significant impact, with overall air transport capacity decreasing by about 16% -18%. As a key global air transit hub, the Gulf region has seen a 62% month on month drop in outbound cargo volume, with core hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi facing operational obstacles. Mainstream air transport channels such as Asia Europe, Asia Europe, and America are facing tight space, extended delivery times, and rising costs.

       Due to safety operation and airspace control requirements, multiple international airlines have gradually adjusted their Middle East route plans. Lufthansa Group officially announced on March 24th that it will extend the suspension of passenger and cargo flights between its subsidiaries Lufthansa, Swiss International Airlines, and Austrian Airlines to Dubai and Tel Aviv until May 31, 2026; The grounding period for flights to and from high-risk areas such as Tehran, Abu Dhabi, and Beirut has been further extended until October 24, 2026. This large-scale grounding covers both passenger and belly cargo transportation, directly exacerbating the global shortage of effective cargo space.

       With the widespread cancellation of flights and the implementation of bypass plans, most cross continental routes have extended their range by 2-4 days, resulting in a 15% -20% decrease in aircraft payload. Coupled with the high international oil prices, airlines have generally raised fuel surcharges, driving global air freight prices to continue to rise. The current market is characterized by tight cabin space, slow delivery time, and high freight rates, which have a particularly significant impact on time sensitive goods such as electronic products, precision accessories, and fresh pharmaceuticals.