Escalating tensions in the Middle East are beginning to cause significant disruptions in global air cargo networks, as airspace closures and flight restrictions force airlines to reroute their schedules and suspend operations along critical transport corridors.

The conflict in Iran and the imposed restrictions on parts of the region’s airspace are directly impacting a substantial portion of global air freight, highlighting the Middle East’s pivotal role in international supply chains. According to a new analysis by WorldACD Market Data, approximately 21% of global air cargo flows are directly linked to the Middle East, whether the shipments originate from the region, have it as their final destination, or pass through its major aviation hubs. The analysis is based on global air cargo weight data for the period from November 2025 to January 2026.