German air cargo handling volumes rise slightly in second quarter

The Verband der Air Cargo Abfertiger Deutschlands (VACAD), which represents air cargo handling companies in Germany, reported that its member firms processed 454,191 tonnes of air freight in the second quarter of 2026.

According to the association, that figure marks a 2.4 percent rise compared with the first quarter of the year and a 1.7 percent increase against the same period a year earlier.

Employment in the sector also grew. VACAD said its members employed 3,297 people during the quarter, up 2.4 percent from the first quarter and 4.8 percent higher than a year earlier.

Despite the hiring gains, the association said a shortage of skilled workers continues to limit growth in the sector. It pointed in particular to lengthy waiting times for security clearance checks, which it said make it harder for handlers to bring on new staff.

The figures were released by VACAD on Friday, August 28.