FedEx Express, based in Memphis, Tennessee, USA, operates one of the world’s largest air cargo fleets, consisting of over 680 aircraft. This airline specializes in express shipping and excels in the timely delivery of time-sensitive cargo, including perishables and medical shipments.
Annually, FedEx Express moves over 7 million metric tons of cargo across its global network, covering key routes in the USA, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. With a presence in more than 220 countries, FedEx Express has built a strong reputation for reliability and quick delivery services that cater to various industries worldwide.
Top 10 International Cargo Airlines
UPS Airlines, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, operates an extensive cargo fleet with over 290 aircraft. Known for its support of e-commerce logistics and healthcare shipments, UPS Airlines specializes in the transportation of oversized cargo and provides dependable service with advanced tracking technology.
Each year, this airline handles approximately 4.5 million metric tons of cargo, with significant operations in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. With a strong focus on efficiency and seamless logistics, UPS Airlines has become a trusted partner for businesses looking to optimize their supply chains across the globe.
Qatar Airways Cargo, operating from Doha, Qatar, has become one of the most technologically advanced cargo airlines in the world. The airline has a fleet that includes around 35 dedicated freighters and more than 200 passenger aircraft with cargo capabilities.
With a focus on handling perishables, pharmaceuticals, and express shipments, Qatar Airways Cargo ships roughly 2.2 million metric tons of goods each year. It serves major routes across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, providing specialized temperature-controlled solutions to ensure the safety and quality of sensitive cargo.
Emirates SkyCargo, based in Dubai, UAE, operates a large fleet that includes 11 freighters and more than 270 passenger aircraft. Each year, Emirates SkyCargo transports approximately 2.7 million metric tons of cargo, with specialties in pharmaceuticals, perishables, and automotive shipments.
Known for its high-tech facilities and extensive route network, Emirates SkyCargo offers reliable services across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, making it a preferred carrier for high-value and temperature-sensitive goods.
UPS Airlines, headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, is a global leader in air freight with a specialized focus on e-commerce logistics, healthcare shipments, and oversized cargo. Operating a fleet of more than 290 aircraft, UPS Airlines leverages advanced tracking and logistics technology to ensure reliable, real-time updates for shipments.
Each year, it moves approximately 4.5 million metric tons of cargo across North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. With its well-coordinated logistics network and consistent service quality, UPS Airlines is a trusted partner for businesses seeking dependable, secure, and efficient solutions for a wide variety of shipment types.
Cathay Pacific Cargo, headquartered in Hong Kong, has established itself as a premier cargo airline in the Asia-Pacific region, operating a fleet of around 20 freighters along with additional cargo capacity on passenger flights.
This airline transports approximately 1.8 million metric tons of cargo annually, specializing in electronics, perishables, and pharmaceuticals. With its strong connectivity to North America, Europe, and Australia, Cathay Pacific Cargo provides efficient, dependable service that supports the dynamic logistics needs of the Asia-Pacific region.
Lufthansa Cargo, based in Frankfurt, Germany, is highly regarded in Europe and globally for its premium logistics services. The airline operates 11 dedicated freighters and has access to additional cargo capacity through the Lufthansa Group.
Each year, Lufthansa Cargo handles over 1.6 million metric tons of shipments, focusing on pharmaceuticals, perishables, and automotive cargo. With a vast network across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, Lufthansa Cargo has positioned itself as a key player in the transportation of high-value and sensitive goods.
Korean Air Cargo, with its headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, serves as a vital link between Asia and global markets. Operating a fleet of more than 20 freighters, Korean Air Cargo transports approximately 1.5 million metric tons of goods annually, specializing in electronics, perishables, and e-commerce shipments.
With key routes in Asia, North America, and Europe, the airline is renowned for its reliable, high-quality service, particularly when it comes to handling sensitive and high-value items.
Singapore Airlines Cargo, headquartered in Singapore, operates with a combination of dedicated freighters and cargo space on Singapore Airlines’ passenger flights. This airline moves about 1.3 million metric tons of cargo each year and is particularly noted for its expertise in handling pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value items.
Known for its stringent security standards, Singapore Airlines Cargo connects Asia with Europe, North America, and Oceania, providing consistent, secure, and reliable logistics solutions for industries requiring meticulous handling.
China Airlines Cargo, based in Taipei, Taiwan, maintains a fleet of around 20 freighters that service major routes across Asia, North America, and Europe. Annually, this airline transports around 1.4 million metric tons of cargo, with a focus on electronics, automotive parts, and perishables.
China Airlines Cargo’s robust logistics support and strong regional presence make it a preferred choice for companies looking to move large volumes of goods securely and efficiently.
Cargolux, operating from Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, is renowned for its expertise in handling oversized and heavy cargo, including industrial machinery and livestock. With a fleet of approximately 30 dedicated freighters, Cargolux ships around 1.1 million metric tons of goods annually.
Its central European location provides ideal connectivity for serving key routes across Europe, Asia, and North America. This specialization in transporting oversized cargo makes Cargolux a critical logistics partner for industries involved in large-scale manufacturing and infrastructure projects.
What are the top cargo airlines in the world?
The leading cargo airlines globally include FedEx, UPS, Qatar Airways Cargo, Emirates SkyCargo, Cathay Pacific Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo, Korean Air Cargo, Singapore Airlines Cargo, China Airlines Cargo, and Cargolux.
How do cargo airlines handle sensitive shipments like pharmaceuticals?
Many top cargo airlines, such as Qatar Airways Cargo and Emirates SkyCargo, have specialized temperature-controlled containers and dedicated handling procedures to ensure sensitive items like pharmaceuticals arrive in optimal condition.
What types of goods do international cargo airlines typically transport?
Cargo airlines handle a variety of goods, including e-commerce shipments, perishables, high-value items, electronics, automotive parts, heavy machinery, and industrial equipment.
Which cargo airline is best for express shipping?
FedEx Express and UPS Airlines are widely regarded for their reliable and efficient express shipping services, making them ideal choices for time-sensitive shipments.
Do cargo airlines offer tracking for shipments?
Yes, leading cargo airlines like FedEx, UPS, and Lufthansa Cargo provide advanced tracking systems, allowing customers to monitor their shipments in real time.
How do cargo airlines handle oversized or heavy cargo?
Airlines like Cargolux specialize in oversized cargo and have specialized equipment and procedures for transporting heavy machinery and industrial items, offering custom solutions for unique shipping needs.
What is the environmental impact of international cargo airlines?
Many cargo airlines are implementing eco-friendly practices, such as fuel-efficient aircraft, optimized flight paths, and carbon offset programs to reduce their environmental impact.
How is the cost of air cargo calculated?
Air cargo costs are typically based on factors such as weight, volume, distance, and specific handling requirements. Some cargo may also require additional fees for special handling or storage.
What is the fastest-growing sector in air cargo?
E-commerce logistics is one of the fastest-growing sectors in air cargo, with airlines like UPS and FedEx expanding services to support online shopping and quick delivery.
How do cargo airlines manage customs clearance for international shipments?
Most major cargo airlines have dedicated customs brokerage services or partnerships to facilitate efficient customs clearance, reducing delays and ensuring smooth border crossings for international shipments.
