The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure is reshaping global air cargo demand, with bulky server racks and advanced semiconductors replacing low-cost e-commerce goods as major airfreight drivers.
Companies are paying higher prices to quickly ship AI-related equipment from Asia to US data centers rather than wait for slower ocean transport, reports The Wall Street Journal. Air cargo volumes from Asia to North America have surged, while rates have climbed due to strong demand, rising fuel costs, and limited freighter capacity.
The shift comes as tariffs and the end of low-value import exemptions have slowed the flow of cheap online retail shipments from companies like Shein and Temu. Logistics providers and freight operators are now benefiting from the AI boom, but the demand for oversized data-center equipment is creating pressure on available cargo aircraft and transportation networks.
