Supply Chain Research

Global airfreight had a strong finish to 2016, according to IATA. The 10% growth in volumes was the fastest since February 2015. The European airlines had a particularly strong run, with growth of 17% being the highest since May 2010. Global load factors increased to 46% vs. 44% a year ago, though that is still below 2014’s level. The outlook from European and Chinese managers suggests further growth is possible. Yet, December’s data may have been flattered by the early lunar new year, and U.S. managers have turned more pessimistic ahead of forthcoming protectionist policy risks.