The global air freight industry has continued its strong start to 2014.

Figures released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) showed markets in February experienced a 2.9 per cent rise in demand when compared to the year before. During the first two months of 2014, levels have increased by 3.6 per cent against the same period in 2013.

The study showed the vast majority of growth was experienced by airlines operating in the Middle East and Europe. Statistics showed these areas enjoyed an 11.9 per cent and 5.5 per cent hike in demand respectively. 

Director general and chief executive officer at IATA Tony Tyler commented: "Cargo has had a positive start to the year. There is good cause for measured optimism in the cargo industry's prospects in 2014."

However, he added trends such as the implementation of new protectionist measures will not work in favour of the sector. He stated factors such as this were the main reason freight companies were not seeing demand levels rising by five or even six per cent.