What is the approximate annual value of goods transported by air and its share of world trade value?

• A. 4.2 trillion, 25 percent
• B. 6.4 trillion, 35 percent
• C. 8.0 trillion, 50 percent
• D. 2.1 trillion, 15 percent

Answer: (B)

Air freight moves high-value, time-sensitive goods, so it carries a large share of world trade value relative to the small amount of volume it handles. The approximate annual value of goods transported by air is about US$6.4 trillion, which is roughly 35% of world trade value. This reflects how valuable, time-critical items—electronics, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and similar goods—often rely on air transport to reach markets quickly. The other options understate or overstate both the total value and the share, whereas 6.4 trillion and 35 percent best match the real-world relationship between air cargo and world trade.