The Challenges Facing Large Cargo‐Handling Airports in the United States: Directional Imbalances, Traffic Variability, and Dependence on Hub Carriers

ABSTRACT This study explores the differing characteristics of freight traffic at the largest U.S. airports specializing primarily in cargo shipments (“cargo‐focused airports”) against those that have diversified freight and passenger roles (“mixed‐purpose airports”). Evaluating data from 2018 to 2024, the results show that during the 12 months ending in April 2024, traffic at cargo‐focused airports modestly outperformed mixed‐purpose airports. However, the traffic patterns at cargo‐focused airports exposed them to more risk in three significant areas. First, cargo‐focused airports experience higher year‐over‐year fluctuations due to their relatively small size and the diverse mix of carriers they serve. Second, cargo‐focused airports are more heavily dependent on a single carrier group, in most cases, FedEx, UPS, or Amazon Air. Nine of the 15 largest cargo‐focused airports derived at least 95% of their traffic from one group, compared to only four mixed‐purpose airports. Finally, these airports face higher imbalances between inbound and outbound traffic, which makes them more vulnerable amid changing market conditions. Although we posit that cargo‐focused airports are poised for growth, their strategic agendas must account for the additional risks they face. Federal agencies and trade associations should take steps to assist airports in addressing these challenges.