Tough times ahead as covid 19 slows air cargo movement
The COVID-19 pandemic has indeed had a significant impact on the air cargo industry, leading to a slowdown in air cargo movement. Here are some reasons why:
- Reduced passenger flights: With many countries imposing travel restrictions and lockdowns, passenger flights have been significantly reduced. This has resulted in a decrease in belly cargo capacity, which is a significant portion of air cargo capacity.
- Grounded aircraft: Some airlines have grounded their aircraft due to reduced demand, which has further reduced air cargo capacity.
- Staff shortages: Many airlines and ground handlers have reported staff shortages due to COVID-19-related absences, which has impacted their ability to handle cargo efficiently.
- Border closures and restrictions: Border closures and restrictions have made it difficult for cargo to be transported across countries, leading to delays and increased costs.
- Increased demand for medical supplies: The pandemic has created an unprecedented demand for medical supplies, such as masks, gloves, and ventilators, which has put pressure on air cargo capacity.
- Supply chain disruptions: The pandemic has disrupted global supply chains, leading to delays and shortages of goods, including air cargo.
- Increased costs: The pandemic has led to increased costs for airlines, including higher fuel costs, increased security measures, and additional staff costs.
- Reduced capacity at airports: Many airports have reduced their capacity due to COVID-19-related measures, such as social distancing and reduced staffing.
The impact of these factors has been significant, with air cargo volumes declining by up to 20% in some regions. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that the air cargo industry is facing its worst crisis in decades.
To mitigate these challenges, airlines and air cargo operators are implementing various measures, such as:
- Increasing cargo-only flights: Many airlines are operating cargo-only flights to increase capacity and reduce the impact of reduced passenger flights.
- Rerouting cargo: Airlines are rerouting cargo to avoid affected areas and minimize delays.
- Increasing capacity at airports: Airports are increasing their capacity by adding more cargo handling facilities and staff.
- Implementing new technologies: Airlines and air cargo operators are implementing new technologies, such as digitalization and automation, to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Collaborating with other airlines: Airlines are collaborating with other airlines to share capacity and reduce costs.
Despite these challenges, the air cargo industry is expected to recover as the pandemic subsides and global trade returns to normal. In the meantime, airlines and air cargo operators are working hard to maintain supply chains and keep goods moving.