Air cargo, also known as air freight, is
the transportation of goods, mail, and other materials by aircraft. It is a critical component of the global supply chain, especially for shipping time-sensitive, high-value, or perishable items over long distances. The industry transports trillions of dollars worth of goods annually.
Types of air cargo
Air cargo is broadly categorized into two types:
- General cargo: This includes everyday consumer goods that do not require special handling, such as clothing, electronics, and books.
- Special cargo: These shipments require specific handling due to their nature. Categories include:
- Perishable goods: Fresh produce, flowers, and pharmaceuticals that need a temperature-controlled environment.
- Live animals: Pets, livestock, and zoo animals are transported according to strict regulations to ensure their safety and well-being.
- Hazardous materials: Items that could pose a risk during transit, like explosives, flammable liquids, and radioactive materials, are subject to stringent regulations.
- High-value or fragile items: Fine art, luxury goods, and delicate electronics require extra security and care.
- Human remains, organs, and tissue:These require sensitive handling and strict adherence to regulations.
How air cargo is transported
Cargo can be transported in several ways:
- Passenger aircraft belly cargo: Airlines transport cargo in the “belly” or hold of passenger planes. This is a very common practice, with this method accounting for roughly half of all air freight.
- Cargo-only aircraft (freighters): These aircraft are specifically designed and configured to transport freight, carrying cargo on both the main deck and in the belly.
- “Preighters”: During periods of high cargo demand and low passenger travel, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, passenger aircraft can be temporarily configured to carry cargo in the cabin.
Key benefits and drawbacks
Benefits
- Speed: Air cargo is the fastest shipping method for long distances, which is vital for urgent, high-value, or time-sensitive goods.
- Global reach: The extensive network of airports and flight routes allows businesses to access distant international markets quickly and efficiently.
- Security: Airports have stringent security measures, which minimize the risk of damage, theft, or loss.
- Inventory management: Fast transit times support just-in-time manufacturing and help companies maintain leaner inventory levels.
Drawbacks
- High cost: Air cargo is significantly more expensive than other transportation methods like sea or land freight.
- Size and weight limitations: Aircraft capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for shipping excessively large or heavy items.
- Environmental impact: Air transport produces a higher carbon footprint compared to other modes of freight transport.
The air cargo process
Air cargo shipping involves several coordinated steps to ensure a smooth journey:
- Booking and paperwork: The shipper or a freight forwarder books space with an airline and prepares the necessary documents, including the air waybill and commercial invoices.
- Collection and consolidation: The cargo is collected and taken to an air cargo terminal, where it may be combined with other shipments to optimize space.
- Security and handling: The goods undergo security screening and are prepared for loading according to the flight plan.
- Air transport: The cargo is flown to the destination airport on either a passenger or dedicated freighter aircraft.
- Customs clearance: Upon arrival, the shipment goes through customs clearance in the destination country.
- Final delivery: The cargo is unloaded and transported to the final recipient.
