Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
By 2024 freight traffic measured in freight tonne-kilometers, the five largest air cargo operators were FedEx, Qatar Airways, UPS, Emirates and Atlas Air. This ranking measures cargo weight carried over distance—not revenue, tonnes alone, fleet size or available capacity.
Who are the 5 largest air cargo operators?
The ranking below uses 2024 freight tonne-kilometers (FTK, also reported as cargo tonne-kilometers or CTK). The top three figures are reported by Statista; the Emirates and Atlas Air figures come from an Air Cargo News ranking based on IATA World Air Transport Statistics (WATS) data.
| Rank | Operator | 2024 cargo traffic |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | FedEx Express | Over 18.1 billion FTK |
| 2 | Qatar Airways / Qatar Airways Cargo | 15.2 billion FTK |
| 3 | UPS Airlines | 15.1 billion FTK |
| 4 | Emirates SkyCargo | 12.354 billion FTK |
| 5 | Atlas Air | 11.942 billion FTK |
The Statista figures are rounded as reported; Air Cargo News presents the last two values as 12,354 million and 11,942 million FTK. Those company-level figures are secondary reporting of IATA WATS data, not a detailed table independently published on IATA’s public product page.
What does “largest” mean in this ranking?
Freight tonne-kilometers combine the weight of cargo with the distance it travels. A tonne carried a long way contributes more FTK than a tonne transported a short distance. That makes FTK useful for comparing traffic across operators with different route networks.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors#1 Best Overall
- Realistic airplane model: Officially licensed by UPSwith authentic, highly detailed markings and designs accurate to the real plane
- Toy airplane for kids ages 3+. This must-have for the young aviator enthusiast in your life. Includes a single toy plane with rolling wheels and authentic livery.
- Size: Plane model measures approximately 5.75 inches in length with a 5 inch wingspan, perfectly sized for easy display and handling
- Quality materials: Die-cast metal airplanes with plastic parts, no assembly required
- Let your imagination fly: Daron airplanes have brought smiles to kids and collectors since 1990 as America’s source of aviation-related collectibles and transportation themed toys
It is not interchangeable with other measures. IATA distinguishes cargo tonne-kilometers, available cargo tonne-kilometers, freight tonnes and load factors in its World Air Transport Statistics. Tonnes carried measure weight without distance; available cargo tonne-kilometers measure capacity. Revenue, fleet size and network reach answer still different questions.
How to read the 2024 comparison
It measures traffic, not capacity
The ranking shows how much cargo traffic operators recorded in the selected measure. It does not establish how much unused capacity they had or how full their aircraft were; those questions require capacity and load-factor figures.
Rank #2
- DIECAST CONSTRUCTION: Military cargo airplane made with a diecast alloy body and ABS plastic components, with a gray finish and detailed transport-aircraft styling
- PULLBACK MOVEMENT: Pull the airplane backward and release it to activate forward movement. The friction-powered mechanism requires no remote control or charging
- LIGHT AND SOUND EFFECTS: Integrated flashing lights and aircraft sound effects provide additional interaction during play. Three button-cell batteries are included
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: Measures approximately 8.7 inches across, 8.6 inches long, and 2.7 inches high, with rolling wheels for use on smooth, level surfaces
- PLAY AND DISPLAY: Designed for imaginative aircraft play and tabletop display. Suitable for children ages 3 and up and for collectors of military vehicle models
The operators use different business models
Express integrators and carriers combining passenger and freighter operations do not offer identical networks or service models. A higher FTK rank therefore does not make an operator automatically better for a particular shipment. Route, handling needs and service suitability matter to a shipper.
The figures cover 2024, not a current company-by-company order
IATA’s market statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air cargo reported by member and non-member airlines. The public sources cited here establish this 2024 comparison, but do not provide a comparable official public airline-by-airline table for full-year 2025. IATA reported that global air cargo demand grew 3.4% in 2025 versus 2024; that market-wide growth figure does not show how any individual operator’s traffic or rank changed.
Rank #3
- Purpose & Use – Perfect for collectors, aviation enthusiasts, or as a display piece, this snap-fit model assembles quickly without glue and includes a sturdy display stand
- Perfect Size – At 1/200 scale, the model measures approximately 13 inches long with a 12 ½-inch wingspan—large enough to impress while fitting neatly on shelves or desks
- Quality Materials – Made from durable solid injection-molded plastic for long-lasting quality, smooth finishes, and detailed realism
- Brand Excellence – From SkyMarks by Daron, a trusted leader in collectible aircraft models, delivering officially licensed replicas that celebrate modern aviation design and engineering
What the ranking can—and cannot—tell a shipper
The list identifies the operators with the greatest 2024 traffic by distance-adjusted cargo volume. It is a useful scale comparison, not a recommendation for choosing a carrier. To compare operators for a shipment, look separately at the route and network, service model, handling requirements, available capacity and the relevant shipment-specific service terms.
IATA describes WATS as “the global aviation statistics database built entirely on direct airline reporting.” That is IATA’s description of its dataset; the detailed top-five company values above are reported through the cited secondary sources.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Excellent Metal Construction: This AN-225 cargo transport aircraft is crafted from high-quality die-cast metal, offering a solid and compact form that fits effortlessly into any space for an impressive aviation display. The finely applied finish faithfully replicates the real aircraft's appearance, with long-lasting color that resists fading over time
- Exquisite Details: This Antonov 225 cargo aircraft model features an openable nose cargo door, faithfully replicating the most distinctive design element of the real 225 freighter. The landing gear wheels are fully rotatable, and with the included stand, the model can be easily displayed in various in-flight or ground postures for a more engaging presentation
- Upgraded Stand: This updated An-225 model comes with a 360° adjustable display stand, allowing flexible presentation of various flight postures and accurately recreating the aircraft's different angles for enhanced playability
- Rich Accessories: This cargo model kit includes a 7.88-inch An-225 aircraft, a 360° rotatable stand, and a matching rubber airport mat. The comprehensive set delivers an immersive aviation display experience
- Versatile Placement: This An-225 transport model fits perfectly on desks, bookshelves, or any flat surface, adding an aviation-themed touch to any space. An ideal choice for collectors or as a gift for aviation enthusiasts
Rank #4
- [Quick introduction] Type: compatible for fedex ATR 72 turbine cargo model plane, Material: resin & Metal airplane model, Dimensions: 20.00×17.50×5.50 cm, Painting: paint-sprayed model planes (not stickers), Accessories: airplane display stand, Scale: 1/130 for ATR airplane, Suggested Use: Birthday gifts, display ornaments, aviation souvenirs.
- [Product Size] Compatible for fedex ATR 72 airplane model kit is based on the actual aircraft and is carefully crafted at a 1/300 scale. The aircraft model measures 7.87×6.89×2.17 inch / 20.00×17.50×5.50 cm. The 1/130 airplane model is moderately sized and does not take up too much space, showing the elegant and special appearance of the ATR turbine cargo airplane. It is suitable for airplane display items.
- [Painted and Material] No Decals, all markings, lines, and logos are spray-painted rather than stickers. The smooth, glossy surface exudes elegance, replicating the authentic airliners livery. Made entirely of alloy, this is a die-cast metal airplane model. It comes with a plastic display stand and a set of wheels, making it suitable for display, collection, or as a decorative model on a table.
- [Commemorative Collection and Gifts] The 1/130 ATR airplane model is not only a collectible artwork, but also a gift choice for aviation enthusiasts. It allows you to share and recall the story of this A330 super transporter with your relatives and friends, allowing you to appreciate the charm and legend of the ATR cargo plane. It can also inspire your interest and exploration in aviation knowledge and technology.
- [Buy with Confidence] We adhere to strict production standards and strictly control the quality of this ATR 72 model aircraft product to ensure that every customer receives a satisfactory high-quality product. If the airplane model you receive has any defects, we will resolve them for you within 24 hours. Thank you for your trust in our products!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
