Air cargo rates drift lower but AI boom keeps them aloft

Summary

Air cargo rates are drifting lower as Gulf capacity returns and jet fuel eases, with WorldACD's week ending July 5 average at $3.13 per kg (spot $3.62), but they remain well above pre-crisis levels, Xeneta said. AI-related semiconductor shipments—global sales up 106% year on year in April—are replacing e-commerce as the main growth engine, keeping rates aloft.