Vacad reports increase in air cargo handled in 2024
The association of German air cargo handlers (Vacad) recorded a 1.9% increase in air cargo volumes in Q4/2024, with 456,700 t processed. Compared to Q4/2023, this represents a 0.4% rise. For the full year 2024, the total volume of cargo handled reached about 1.78 million t, marking a 5.2% increase from 2023.
The number of employees in the sector remained stable, with 3,443 staff in Q4/2024, reflecting a 1.8% rise from Q3 and 0.1% growth year-on-year. However, staff shortages persist, with Vacad members seeking 5-10% more personnel. The industry urges faster security clearance processing to address workforce gaps.
“The situation for German airfreight handlers is significantly worse than in neighbouring EU countries,” said Vacad chairman Claus Wagner. “We’ve frequently pointed out a series of unsuitable requirements to politicians and authorities,” he added. (js)