Air Canada's cargo revenues grew 10% year on year in the second quarter of 2025, largely due to demand in the Pacific and Latin American markets.
Cargo revenues totalled C$253m in the second quarter, compared to C$230m in the second quarter of 2024.
Reveues for the cargo division were also up 13% in the first six months of the year compared to the same period of 2024.
"This growth was attributed to increased volume in the Pacific market and stronger yields year over year in the Pacific and Latin American markets," said the airline in its second quarter management's discussion and analysis document.
The decision by shippers to frontload shipments due to changing tariffs also contributed to increased cargo revenues.
"The year over year performance also reflected increased shipping activity as shippers adjusted to changes in tariff deadlines and U.S. changes to the duty-free exemption rules on low-value goods," added Air Canada.
While Air Canada prospered in the Pacific and Latin America cargo markets, Atlantic revenues were flat for the second quarter.
For the overall airline there were operating revenues of $5.5bn, an increase of 2% versus last year.
Michael Rousseau, president and chief executive of Air Canada, said: "Operationally, we had an excellent spring, leading all major North American carriers in on-time performance for both May and June, which corresponded with strong gains in customer service scores.
"We remained disciplined and consistent in executing on a long-term plan that is rooted in Air Canada’s proven commercial strategy, while navigating macroeconomic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
"We have strategically redirected capacity to high-demand markets and captured demand for premium services, leveraging the breadth and strength of our global network. Our results were further lifted by strong performances by Air Canada Cargo, Air Canada Vacations, and Aeroplan—each a key pillar of our diversified business."
In its investor presentation document for the quarter, Air Canada said it would, amongst other goals, focus on achieving "disciplined and agile capacity management to match capacity with demand" as well as expanding its "LATAM schedule to capitalize on passenger demand and cargo opportunities".
Air Canada confirmed it had six Boeing 767 freighters in service as of 30 June. The airline has 364 aircraft in its fleet in total.
Air Canada’s cargo operating revenues were up 16% year on year in the first quarter of 2025 as a result of shippers front-loading cargo to avoid increased costs from tariffs.
