IAG cargo revenue rises despite 14% drop in traffic

IAG recorded a 14 per cent decline in cargo traffic in the third quarter of 2026, even as cargo revenue increased 3.9 per cent to €294 million, the carrier group said. The contrasting figures reflect tighter air cargo capacity and higher yields across its network. Cargo volumes fell to 1,101 million cargo tonne-kilometres, while revenue earned per tonne-kilometre rose 20.7 per cent. IAG attributed the lower volumes largely to Middle East flight suspensions and the cancellation of third-party long-haul freighter capacity, particularly affecting shipments from Asia Pacific. The group partly offset the decline through higher-yielding premium shipments and cost savings. Demand for specialist cargo also supported stronger yields across India and Asia Pacific. The results highlight how reduced capacity can support revenue even when cargo volumes fall.

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