GLOBAL air cargo data for May supports the continued small recovery of volumes, but a fall in demand in the second fortnight signals challenging times ahead as airlines return capacity to the market, reports the American Journal of Transportation.

CLIVE Data Services data for May pinpoints a deteriorating condition as the month progressed. As hinted in CLIVE's data last month, the industry has passed the (initial) bottom, after a 37 per cent decline in volumes year-on-year in April.

The corresponding figure for May shows a slight upward curve and, measured alongside a capacity decline of 42 per cent versus last year, the pressure on capacity remained high.

Consequently, CLIVE's "dynamic load factor", based on both the volume and weight perspectives of cargo flown and capacity available, increased month-to-month from 67 per cent to 69 per cent.

"Looking at the last 12 weeks, it is clear to see that market volumes remain erratic and that this will continue for the foreseeable future," said CLIVE managing director Niall van de Wouw.

"This is one of the few certainties we have at the moment. We can see dark clouds gathering and this is a cause of concern for air cargo. This is why, in navigating these uncertain times, weekly data becomes crucial," said Mr van de Wouw.