As the Middle East conflict continues, Asia-Europe air cargo shippers are facing a double blow of soaring freight rates and rising fuel surcharges. Approximately 30% of Asia-Europe air cargo is typically routed via the Middle East, but ongoing tensions have severely constrained this corridor, leading to a rush for available capacity. Global jet fuel prices have surged more than 80% to $197.00 per barrel by March 20, significantly increasing cost pressures on airlines. The Baltic Air Freight Index (BAI 00) rose 6.2% in the week ending March 23, 2026, up 3.1% year-on-year. Logistics providers are adapting by optimizing route planning and leveraging alternative air corridors to mitigate disruptions. Meanwhile, IATA’s recent Global Cargo Conference highlighted that digitization and AI applications are becoming critical tools for the industry to enhance resilience amid ongoing volatility.