The Air Freight Market During the Pandemic

Purpose: In the paper some analyses of air cargo transport during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 in selected European countries were presented. The main goal of this paper is to try to assess, based on the analysis of the correlation between the scale of crises in the cargo and passenger air transport market, whether passenger planes have partially taken over the cargo market. Design/Methodology/Approach: The percentage share of air cargo transport in the European market in 2018 and the volume of cargo transport per capita in these countries for 2019 were examined. In the research the linear correlation coefficient to analyze the correlation between the scale of crises in both markets (passenger and cargo) was applied. Findings: Freight transport has been affected by the crisis, albeit to a lesser extent. However, it is a myth that freight transport, also in crisis, could save airlines, which may be indicated by the lack of correlation between the scale of the crisis on both freight and passenger markets across European countries. Practical Implications: It is important to properly assess the size and types of aircraft available and the logistics around them, as well as the balances of cargo and passenger flights. This will enable the transition to gradual and reactionary changes in the transport of cargo and passengers depending on the prevailing market situation in the industry. Originality/Value: The paper can be used for advanced analyzes enabling policy makers to prepare the right actions for the aviation industry.