Liege Airport reports a solid first quarter in 2026, confirming the momentum observed in 2025. Over the first three months of the year 2026, the cargo airport recorded significant growth both in aircraft movements (+7%) and transported volumes (+16%). For the month of March 2026 only, the aircraft movements increased by +9% and transported volumes by 11%.
Between January and March 2026, Liege Airport handled 7,247 aircraft movements, representing a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
Growth is even more pronounced in terms of tonnage. A total of 342,845 tons of cargo were handled, compared to 296,506 tons in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 16% increase.
Export activity also confirms this positive trend in 2026 with outbound volumes showing an increase of 20% compared to last year.
These results reflect the strength of Liege Airport’s positioning in the air cargo market and its ability to handle sustained demand, particularly driven by e-commerce, perishables, and international logistics flows.
Despite these strong results, the international environment remains uncertain and volatile. Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, continue to directly impact logistics flows and the balance of the air transport sector.
The Middle East war is reshaping the global air freight industry and the supply chains. The turbulences are driven by numerous and contradictory factors like the significant increase in air cargo spot rate, the cost of jet fuel, the potential energy crisis, the inflation growth, and the restrictions on airspace. Current market conditions may, however, rapidly change in the future. If fuel prices continue to rise, the demand for air freight may well be affected.
“In this context, Liege Airport is adopting a measured approach for the months ahead. While outlook remains positive, 2026 is expected to continue to be shaped by rapid adjustments and demanding market conditions. The airport is therefore approaching the remainder of the year with vigilance, while maintaining a reasoned confidence in the continuation of its growth momentum”, said Laurent Jossart, CEO of Liege Airport.
