Be ready to fly past logistics obstacles in 2026

European businesses can be optimistic in 2026, with the ECB forecasting real-term GDP growth to strengthen from a projected 0.9% in 2025 to 1.3% in 2027. Being able to quickly adapt and flex your supply chain could be a critical advantage as customer demand and confidence strengthens. 

While air freight remains a popular option for industries requiring speed and flexibility such as pharmaceuticals and e-commerce, it is also emerging among other industries as an effective way to keep cargo moving efficiently, such as when dealing with spikes in demand or short-term disruptions.

Expanding air freight infrastructure

Today, Maersk fully operates its own controlled network, including 20 flights per week across our Liege, Frankfurt, and Billund European hubs. This means we can tailor air services to your unique needs, to get your goods where they need to be quickly and efficiently.

The US remained Europe’s second-largest import trading partner in 2024, behind China. With uncertainty over the impact of potential tariffs, businesses may need to explore alternative sourcing strategies to stay competitive and meet demand. Against this disruptive backdrop, Air is a rapid and global solution to plug supply gaps.

In September 2025, the UK’s Transport Secretary approved a second runway for Gatwick, which could see cargo capacity double 2019 levels by 2038.

Elsewhere, Sofia Airport is investing $275 million to operate a third new terminal, a significant expansion of air freight capabilities in Eastern Europe with the potential to improve supply chain reliability for businesses exploring new markets and import cargo routes.

Maersk is uniquely positioned in Europe to integrate air freight into customer supply chains, through its strategically located air freight hubs. In mainland Europe, we have our Liege Air Freight hub and regular controlled flights into Frankfurt Airport, both of which provide onward connectivity for our main customer base in Europe. Then our Billund Air Freight hub, located in the West part of Denmark, offers the additional advantages of being a small airport, meaning less congestion, and is close to a road network which opens up routes across the Nordics and Northern/Central Europe. 

Explore how Maersk Air Freight can connect with Inland services across Europe, giving you the flexibility you need to keep your supply chain on track.

Reach new markets and customers faster

Trade within the EU increased from just over 20% of EU GDP in 2018 to 23.8% in 2025. But exports are also growing to other continents, seeing a 1.1% increase in 2024 compared to 2023. If you’re considering expanding your business into new markets or importing from new sources overseas, air freight gives you greater flexibility and control to respond as you work to establish a customer base and supply chain networks.

That said, when you’re tapping into new markets, the mode of transport is only part of the equation; coordinating customs clearance is just as important.

To simplify this process, consider adding customs to your freight booking. By integrating your transport and customs requirements, you can reduce the risk of delays and help your cargo move into new markets without hold-ups, which can be a real competitive advantage during periods of uncertainty.

For more information on how Maersk Air Freight can help you respond to disruptions, visit our dedicated site.