International airfreight rates increased across multiple routes, with some lanes rising by up to 95%, according to Drewry. The increase reflects reduced cargo capacity and higher fuel costs linked to geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
Reduced Capacity And Fuel Price Pressures
Data from Drewry Airfreight Insight show that rates from Shanghai to Dubai rose 95% to $8.60 per kilogram since the start of the conflict. Analysts said continued increases in fuel surcharges could push prices above the previous peak of $9.40 per kilogram recorded during the pandemic. Other routes also show higher costs. Fuel surcharges on shipments from Singapore to London increased by up to 290% month on month, while security surcharges from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Amsterdam rose 44%.
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Escalating Costs On Global Trade Lanes
Rate increases extend beyond individual routes. Shipments from Mumbai and Delhi to Madrid recorded an average increase of 27% over the past month, with fuel surcharges rising 21%. According to Philip Damas, reduced capacity and higher fuel costs are driving price increases across the airfreight market.
Impact On Major Airline Operations
Airline operations in the region have been affected by the conflict. Carriers including Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Etihad Airways reported reduced flight activity, limiting available cargo capacity. Nearly half of the routes monitored by Drewry recorded month-on-month price increases of 20% or more in March 2026.
Wider Market Implications And Strategic Responses
Middle East routes account for 15.6% of global airfreight traffic and 18.2% of capacity. Disruptions in the region are affecting global trade lanes, increasing transport costs for shippers.
Leveraging Data For Resilient Supply Chains
Drewry said access to rate data and surcharge trends helps companies plan logistics costs and adjust supply chain strategies. Benchmarking tools are used to track pricing changes and support freight planning decisions.
