Brazilian air cargo exports grew 43% in the first quarter of 2026 and reached US$ 5.8 billion, driven by international demand and the advance of e-commerce. During the same period, air cargo transport moved 308.7 thousand tons in Brazil, considering domestic and international operations, according to data from the Air Cargo Indicators Panel, available on the Hórus platform, of the Ministry of Ports and Airports (MPor).
The Minister of Ports and Airports, Tomé Franca, highlighted that the advance in air cargo reflects the strengthening of logistics and the sector's capacity to respond to international trade growth. "The numbers show that Brazil has expanded its logistics competitiveness. The growth of exports by air demonstrates the confidence of the international market in Brazilian products and reinforces the importance of investments in airport infrastructure and operational efficiency," he stated.
Domestic market
In the domestic market, total movement reached 101.2 thousand tons, a slight contraction of 1.5% compared to the same period in 2025. Despite this, transport by cargo aircraft showed growth of 18.3%, reaching 39.8 thousand tons and expanding its share to 35.6% of domestic cargo moved in the country. Transport on mixed aircraft (which carry both passengers and cargo) totaled 61.4 thousand tons, a decline of 11.2%.
Among the main domestic routes, the flows between Manaus (AM) and Guarulhos (SP) stood out, as well as the connection between Manaus (AM) and Viracopos (SP). This reinforces the importance of logistics integration among industrial hubs, distribution centers and airport hubs in the country.
The growth of e-commerce continues to drive demand for faster and more efficient logistics operations across different Brazilian regions.
Exports and international routes
On the international scene, air cargo movement totaled 207.5 thousand tons in the quarter, showing stability compared to the same period of the previous year. The highlight was again for cargo aircraft, which moved 99.5 thousand tons, up 10.9%, while mixed aircraft transported 107.9 thousand tons, a decline of 9.3%.
The routes between Brazil and the United States continued to concentrate the largest international volumes, especially in operations involving Miami (USA) and Santiago (CHI).
The Secretary for Civil Aviation at MPor, Daniel Longo, highlighted the importance of technical monitoring and the production of studies to guide public policies and investments in the sector. "Surveys such as the Air Cargo Indicators Panel are fundamental for monitoring market behavior, identifying trends and supporting strategic decisions. These numbers demonstrate the strength of the sector and help the public authorities and private initiative to plan investments with greater efficiency and predictability," he stated.
Exports on the rise
Brazilian air cargo exports reached US$ 5.8 billion in the first quarter, considering the value of goods shipped for export. This represents significant growth of 43% compared to the same period in 2025. Imports totaled US$ 13.6 billion, an advance of 0.8%.
The United States, China and Germany led the origins of Brazilian air imports, concentrating around 45% of the value moved. The main destinations for exports were the United States, Canada and Switzerland, accounting for 48.3% of the value exported by air. Pharmaceutical products, machinery and electronics, as well as high-value-added cargo, remained among the most relevant items in Brazilian international air trade.
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