New generation of freighters to meet demand

The ongoing Middle East crisis is proving that air cargo charter flights should not be seen as niche services for edge cases, according to CharterSync. “They are essential infrastructure for any business that needs flexibility, speed and confidence in air cargo. Those who understand this now will be better prepared for future disruptions,” the company says. Airbus and Boeing supply most of the dedicated air cargo planes to the market. Both are developing new-generation aircraft designed to operate more efficiently and meet emission reduction targets. According to market research company Fortune Business Insights (Fortune), the global freighter aircraft market was valued at $4.16 billion in 2025. The market is projected to grow from $4.81 bn in 2026 to $6.88 bn by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate of 5.81%. Demand for aircraft is driven by the e-commerce explosion, which is built around advanced and fast transportation. Moreover, the overall landscape for air cargo is expanding, driven by increasing levels of global trade and the urge for fast shipping, according to Fortune. It is expected that express shipments will account for 25% of all air cargo business in 2043, with volumes increasing at 5.8% per year, compared to 3.6% for general cargo. “This demand has generated significant investments in freighter fleets from the incumbent carriers and newly established ones,” according to Fortune. Boeing predicts that airfreight volumes will grow by 4% a year, which will result in a doubling of volumes in 20 years, mainly due to global economic growth, the diversification of supply chain disruptions, and increasing demand for e-commerce. Airbus predicts that 900 new freighters will be needed to handle the volume by 2044. Boeing’s prediction is 885 widebody freighters by 2044. In response to the demand, it has developed the A350F, described as “a highly capable new-generation cargo plane with reduced CO2 emissions, thanks to the latest technology”. Combining advanced aerodynamics with extensive use of weight-saving materials, a carbon airframe and Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft is said to burn 20% less fuel, with the equivalent drop in CO2 emissions compared to other aircraft, the company claims. The A350F will be able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at entry-to- service, with Airbus aiming for 100% capability by 2030. Boeing has completed the first major assembly milestone of the twin jet 777-8 Freighter, which is claimed to provide 30% better fuel efficiency and 60% lower noise. With advanced folding wingtips, “this aircraft is set to redefine global cargo operations”, the company claims. The emergence of new aircraft reflects the shift toward more efficient, purpose-built freighters with larger cargo doors. ER