Xeneta raises 2026 air freight outlook to +5–15% on Middle East shock

Summary

Xeneta published its Air Freight Outlook 2026 Mid-Year Update on July 17, reversing its December call: shipper long-term rates are now forecast to rise 5–15% for the year (versus a prior -5% to -10% drop). The revision follows the Feb. 28 Middle East escalation that removed 12% of global air cargo capacity and lifted first-half rates 17% year on year.