Middle East disruptions reduces air freight capacity by 50%, Shippers turn to US routes
As shippers explore alternative hubs such as Los Angeles, traditional Middle East gateways may experience permanent shifts in volume.
USA – The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has increased air freight demand and pushed up fuel costs. However, according to WorldACD Market Data, air freight capacity to the Middle East has fallen by more than 50% year on year over the past two weeks.
For fresh produce exporters and food logistics investors, this capacity crunch threatens time-sensitive shipments of perishable goods that depend on predictable airfreight schedules.
Sea-Air Intermodal: A Viable Alternative
A U.S. freight forwarder reported that some customers are shifting shipments of consumer goods from Asia to Europe toward sea-air intermodal routes via Los Angeles to reduce costs. “This is much faster than shipping via sea around the southern tip of Africa, and much cheaper than direct air freight,” said Ryan Peterson of Flexport.
Ports Poised for Volume Increases
Noel Hasegaba of the Port of Long Beach said, “If the trade disruptions in the Middle East continue, cargo volumes at the Port of Long Beach could increase.”
The Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles form one of the busiest seaport clusters in the United States, with established cold-chain infrastructure for perishable imports.
Capacity Recovery Depends on Gulf Carriers
Marco Blumenthal of consulting firm Aevean said global air freight capacity, initially expected to grow by 5.5%, has fallen by 1% since late February. He added that recovery will depend on the capacity of Gulf carriers’ wide-body aircraft, which accounts for about half of regional air freight capacity.
On the other hand, Neil van der Wood of Xeneta said that a slower recovery in Gulf tourism could lead to reduced passenger capacity and, in turn, impact cargo volumes. “Gulf airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways operate one of the world’s most important air cargo networks.”
British Airways said it will reduce flights to the Middle East after services resumed, citing lower passenger demand.
Implications for Fresh Produce Trade
For food importers and exporters, reduced air freight capacity leads to higher costs and longer lead times for perishable goods, including berries, avocados, cut flowers, and premium meats.
As shippers explore alternative hubs such as Los Angeles, traditional Middle East gateways may experience permanent shifts in volume.
Ultimately, business leaders must reassess supply chain strategies, balancing costs, transit times, and reliability amid prolonged regional instability.
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