In the dynamic realm of global logistics and freight forwarding, air cargo airports serve as vital gateways for international trade. These hubs handle millions of metric tonnes of goods annually, from electronics and pharmaceuticals to perishable items and e-commerce shipments. Cargo volume, measured in metric tonnes (inbound and outbound), offers a window into economic vitality, supply chain resilience, and emerging trade routes. As we navigate 2025, Asia continues to dominate, with strong contributions from North America and the Middle East.
This blog post explores the top 20 busiest cargo airports based on 2024 data, providing rankings, insights, and trends. Whether you’re a shipper, importer, or logistics professional, understanding these hubs can optimize your freight forwarding strategies. At SL Global Logistics, we specialize in seamless air freight solutions—contact us today to streamline your shipments through these key airports.
The Top 10 Busiest Cargo Airports: Powerhouses of Air Freight
The top 10 airports account for a significant portion of global air cargo, handling over 32 million metric tonnes in 2024—a 9.3% increase from the previous year. Here’s a closer look at the leaders:
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Hong Kong, China – Handling approximately 4.94 million metric tonnes, HKG retains its crown as the world’s busiest cargo hub. Known for its efficiency and connectivity to mainland China, it’s a prime gateway for electronics and consumer goods.
- Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), Shanghai, China – With 3.78 million metric tonnes, PVG climbed the ranks thanks to China’s export boom. It’s a key node for high-value cargo like machinery and apparel.
- Memphis International Airport (MEM), Memphis, USA – FedEx’s global hub processed 3.75 million metric tonnes, emphasizing North America’s role in express shipping and e-commerce logistics.
- Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Anchorage, USA – At 3.70 million metric tonnes, ANC benefits from its strategic trans-Pacific location, serving as a refueling stop for Asia-North America routes.
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), Louisville, USA – UPS’s base handled 3.15 million metric tonnes, focusing on time-sensitive parcels and industrial goods.
- Incheon International Airport (ICN), Incheon, South Korea – With 2.95 million metric tonnes, ICN supports South Korea’s tech exports, including semiconductors and automobiles.
- Miami International Airport (MIA), Miami, USA – Processing 2.75 million metric tonnes, MIA is a Latin America gateway, excelling in perishables like flowers and seafood.
- Hamad International Airport (DOH), Doha, Qatar – At 2.62 million metric tonnes, DOH’s growth reflects Qatar Airways’ expansion in cargo networks.
- Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), Guangzhou, China – Handling 2.37 million metric tonnes, CAN thrives on southern China’s manufacturing output.
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Taoyuan, Taiwan – With 2.27 million metric tonnes, TPE is crucial for Taiwan’s high-tech industry.
These top performers highlight Asia’s dominance, with six in the region, driven by manufacturing and e-commerce growth.
Beyond the Top 10: Emerging Trends in Air Cargo Hubs
Looking at the broader top 20, we see shifts influenced by geopolitical factors, e-commerce surges, and sustainability efforts. For instance, European hubs like Frankfurt and Paris maintain strong positions amid supply chain diversification, while Dubai and Istanbul emerge as Middle Eastern connectors. Post-pandemic recovery has boosted volumes, with global air cargo up 9.9% in 2024 compared to 2023.
Key trends shaping 2025:
- Asia’s Continued Lead: China and South Korea dominate due to export-led economies and advanced infrastructure.
- US Integrator Hubs: Memphis, Louisville, and Anchorage underscore the importance of express carriers like FedEx and UPS.
- Middle East Growth: Doha and Dubai benefit from strategic locations and investments in cargo facilities.
- Sustainability Focus: Airports are adopting green tech, like electric ground equipment, to reduce emissions—critical for eco-conscious freight forwarders.
- E-Commerce Boom: Rising online sales drive demand for fast air shipping, favoring hubs with efficient customs processes.
Navigating these trends requires expert partners. SL Global Logistics offers tailored air freight forwarding services, ensuring your cargo moves swiftly through these busy hubs.
The Top 20 Cargo Airports: Full 2025 Rankings
Below is the complete ranking of the top 20 busiest cargo airports for 2025, based on 2024 data where available and estimates derived from 2023 figures adjusted for global growth trends (approximately 10% average increase).
| Rank | Airport | Location (City, Country) | Cargo Volume (Million Metric Tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hong Kong International (HKG) | Hong Kong, China | 4.94 |
| 2 | Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) | Shanghai, China | 3.78 |
| 3 | Memphis International (MEM) | Memphis, USA | 3.75 |
| 4 | Ted Stevens Anchorage International (ANC) | Anchorage, USA | 3.70 |
| 5 | Louisville Muhammad Ali International (SDF) | Louisville, USA | 3.15 |
| 6 | Incheon International (ICN) | Incheon, South Korea | 2.95 |
| 7 | Miami International (MIA) | Miami, USA | 2.75 |
| 8 | Hamad International (DOH) | Doha, Qatar | 2.62 |
| 9 | Guangzhou Baiyun International (CAN) | Guangzhou, China | 2.37 |
| 10 | Taiwan Taoyuan International (TPE) | Taoyuan, Taiwan | 2.27 |
| 11 | Los Angeles International (LAX) | Los Angeles, USA | 2.34 (est.) |
| 12 | Narita International (NRT) | Tokyo, Japan | 2.10 (est.) |
| 13 | O’Hare International (ORD) | Chicago, USA | 2.10 (est.) |
| 14 | Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG) | Cincinnati, USA | 2.09 (est.) |
| 15 | Charles de Gaulle (CDG) | Paris, France | 2.06 (est.) |
| 16 | Frankfurt am Main (FRA) | Frankfurt, Germany | 2.06 (est.) |
| 17 | Dubai International (DXB) | Dubai, UAE | 1.99 (est.) |
| 18 | Singapore Changi (SIN) | Singapore, Singapore | 1.94 (est.) |
| 19 | Istanbul (IST) | Istanbul, Turkey | 1.76 (est.) |
| 20 | Shenzhen Bao’an International (SZX) | Shenzhen, China | 1.76 (est.) |
Data sourced from Airports Council International (ACI) and industry reports. 26 56
Partner with SL Global Logistics for Expert Freight Forwarding
At SL Global Logistics, we understand the complexities of air cargo through these bustling hubs. As a leading UK-based freight forwarder, we offer end-to-end solutions, including customs clearance, tracking, and competitive rates for shipments to/from Asia, Europe, the US, and beyond. Whether you’re shipping via HKG or MEM, our team ensures timely, cost-effective delivery.
Ready to optimize your supply chain? Contact us today for a free quote on air freight services.
Conclusion: The Future of Air Cargo Hubs in Freight Forwarding
The top 20 busiest cargo airports in 2025 underscore the evolving landscape of global trade, with Asia’s hubs leading amid rising demand for fast, reliable shipping. Factors like geopolitical shifts, e-commerce growth, and sustainability will shape the sector moving forward. Staying ahead requires partnering with experienced freight forwarders like SL Global Logistics.
If you’re looking to leverage these hubs for your business, reach out to our experts. Let’s elevate your logistics game—visit our air freight or get in touch now!