Factors Shaping the Air Cargo Market: A Q&A with Jon Corbi, Executive Vice President of Cargo & Group Charter US
As global trade continues to navigate an uncertain landscape shaped by shifting tariffs, evolving supply chains, and geopolitical disruption, the role of air cargo has never been more critical. For Air Partner – a world leader in aviation services – ensuring reliability, flexibility, and speed is central to its cargo and group charter division. This year, the market has faced extraordinary challenges, from changes to tariff structures impacting e-commerce flows to the ongoing need for rapid response in times of crisis.
To gain insight into how Air Partner Cargo is adapting and innovating in this climate, Jon Corbi, Executive Vice President, Cargo and Group Charter – US, shares his insights. With extensive experience overseeing complex freight operations worldwide, he offers a candid perspective on the realities of the 2025 peak season, the collapse of low-value e-commerce shipments, and the strategies that enable Air Partner to thrive in volatile conditions.
From its round-the-clock global team to its trusted operator partnerships and integrated logistics solutions, Air Partner Cargo distinguishes itself not only by scale but by the expertise of its people.
In this interview, Jon explains how Air Partner is meeting the moment with agility and resilience.
How is demand shaping up for cargo’s peak season this year?
This year has proven to be a unique one due to the tariffs impacting global trade. Traditionally, air cargo peak season picks up towards the end of Q3 and is in full swing by Q4; however, we’ve seen shippers shift their schedule earlier in hopes of beating potential tariff impacts.
Has the elimination of the de minimis tariff exemption impacted the charter market?
Removing duty-free access for items under USD $800 has led to a sharp decline in low-value e-commerce shipments – a key driver of charter demand. Because of this, freighter operators have cancelled flights and shifted their footprint to serve other geographies and markets. Our team has been focused on enabling our customers to remain nimble and stay ahead of the capacity challenges in the market.
We have very close, long-lasting relationships with our operator partners, which allows us to remain competitive and share our advantage with our customers.
How does Air Partner Cargo handle geopolitical disruption?
Our Charter and Time Critical teams are built to handle cargo needs arising from disruption; whether it’s geopolitical, a manufacturer’s line-down situation, or a need to urgently transport life-saving supplies to an area in need. Our team thrives when times are toughest, and solutions are not black and white.
What differentiates Air Partner Cargo from the competition?
I think we have four pillars that really set us apart. Firstly, our people make the difference. We have a team of cargo professionals, not just brokers, who guide our customers to the best solutions.
Secondly, we listen to our customers’ needs and adapt accordingly. Our customers have a need for 24/7 coverage, so we built a team spanning globally that is available at all times. Our US team works with our team in the UK to ensure that there are no gaps in coverage, so we can quote and respond to customer inquiries with speed.
Thirdly, we have built a trusted network of operators that are both reliable and adhere to our market-leading safety compliance standards.
Finally, we have developed a suite of integrated cargo solutions, including full or part charter, AOG, OBC, and NFO solutions. Sometimes our customers’ cargo doesn’t even touch an airplane. We can also provide door-to-door trucking solutions either as a stand-alone product or to complement our air services.
Looking ahead
Air cargo has always been an industry defined by unpredictability – whether due to seasonal surges, regulatory change or global disruption. What sets Air Partner Cargo apart is not simply its ability to manage these challenges, but to turn them into opportunities for its clients. As Jon highlights, the company’s strength lies in four key elements: its experienced people, its 24/7 global coverage, its rigorously vetted operator network, and its suite of integrated solutions that extend well beyond the aircraft.
In practice, this means customers can rely on Air Partner for more than just charter services; they can depend on a partner that adapts to their evolving needs with precision and speed. Whether responding to a manufacturer’s urgent production line challenge, ensuring lifesaving medical supplies reach their destination, or navigating the shifting dynamics of international trade, Air Partner consistently demonstrates the expertise and foresight that the industry demands.
As the cargo market continues to evolve under the influence of tariffs, shifting supply chains and global events, Air Partner remains steadfast in its commitment to helping clients stay agile. The company’s adaptability and depth of knowledge ensure that even in times of uncertainty, its customers can move forward with confidence.
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