Freight traffic across European airports remained broadly stable in the first half of 2025, though performance varied significantly among key cargo gateways, according to the latest data from Airports Council International (ACI) Europe.
Overall cargo volumes for the six-month period rose 0.6% year-on-year, marking a modest but steady performance. Compared with pre-pandemic levels, volumes were 10.4% higher, underscoring the sector’s long-term recovery momentum.
Frankfurt Airport – Europe’s largest cargo hub – posted a 1% year-on-year increase in freight volumes, reaching 968,427 tonnes in the first half.
Istanbul Airport recorded a 4.9% decline to 941,613 tonnes, moving it closer to Frankfurt’s lead but reflecting weaker performance compared to last year.
London Heathrow saw a 2.3% year-on-year increase, maintaining its position as the region’s third-busiest freight gateway.
The strongest year-on-year growth came from:
Liège attributed its above-market performance to the addition of new carriers and logistics operators expanding within its logistics park.
“Our portfolio of over 40 airlines and more than 50 logistics providers is growing, with the arrival of Hong Kong Air Cargo, My Freighter Airlines, Beijing Capital Airlines, Ninatrans, Fracht Group, and others, enabling us to diversify our markets,” said Laurent Jossart, CEO of Liège Airport. “The outlook for the remainder of the year is equally positive.”
Second Quarter 2025: Cargo volumes across European airports were up 0.1% year-on-year, signaling minimal growth but holding steady.
June 2025: Freight throughput fell sharply by 8.4% year-on-year, suggesting softer demand during the early summer period.
While overall half-year figures indicate resilience, the sharp drop in June highlights the fragility of cargo demand amid broader market uncertainties, including fluctuating global trade flows and capacity shifts. Airports showing diversified airline portfolios and strong logistics ecosystems—such as Liège and Madrid—are positioned to better withstand short-term volatility.
Source: https://www.aircargonews.net/cargo-airports/freight-traffic-at-european-airports-stable-in-first-half/1080496.article
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