Dedicated cargo planes carry over half of global air freight by weight and generate about 90% of worldwide air cargo revenues. North America’s air cargo sector alone is projected to grow around 2.8% annually over the next 20 years, fueled by steady retail demand and booming e-commerce. Recent trends underscore this surge – in mid-2024, air cargo demand was up 12% year-on-year thanks to soaring online shopping volumes.
Crucially, cargo freighters provide capabilities that passenger planes cannot. During the pandemic, when passenger flights dwindled, freighter aircraft shouldered 60–70% of all air cargo to keep supply chains running. Even in normal times, main-deck freighters are preferred for urgent air charter shipping because they can serve specialized cargo hubs, accommodate outsized loads, and fly on-demand schedules.
For logistics planners in North America, chartering a dedicated cargo aircraft – whether a giant Boeing 747 freighter or a nimble turboprop – is often the only way to ensure same day air delivery, expedited freight service, or “hand carry” missions for critical items. In short, cargo freighters are the enablers of air charter service, providing the speed, capacity, and flexibility required in today’s high-stakes supply chain environment.