Recognition reflects MIA’s record-breaking cargo growth and strengthening position as one of the world’s leading air freight hubs
Miami International Airport (MIA) has been named Best Airport in North America at the 2026 Asian Freight, Logistics and Supply Chain (AFLAS) Awards, reinforcing its position as a premier global air cargo gateway following another year of exceptional freight performance. The award was presented during the AFLAS Awards ceremony held in Shanghai on 24 June, where MIA was recognised for excellence in cargo operations and customer service across the North American market. The recognition was officially confirmed by the Miami-Dade Aviation Department.
The annual AFLAS Awards, organised by Asia Cargo News, honour outstanding service providers across the international freight and logistics industry, including airlines, airports, seaports, freight forwarders, logistics companies and supply chain partners. Unlike jury-based awards, the winners are determined through votes cast by more than 15,000 readers and e-news subscribers, making the recognition a direct reflection of customer satisfaction and industry confidence.
Receiving the award on behalf of the airport was Jimmy Nares, Chief of Air Service Development at MIA, highlighting the airport’s growing influence in international cargo markets and its expanding connectivity between the Americas and Asia.
The recognition follows a landmark year for MIA’s cargo business. During 2025, the airport handled nearly 3.5 million tonnes of freight, representing a 13.6% increase over the previous year and marking the sixth consecutive year of record-breaking cargo growth.
The impressive performance elevated Miami International Airport to become the busiest airport in the United States for total freight traffic, surpassing the long-established cargo hubs of Louisville, home to UPS Worldport, and Memphis, the global hub of FedEx. On the global stage, MIA ranked as the third-busiest cargo airport worldwide, behind only Hong Kong and Shanghai, underscoring its strategic importance in international trade and supply chain connectivity.
Airport officials attributed the achievement to the sustained commitment of MIA’s workforce, the resilience of its international route network, and continued investments in cargo infrastructure that have strengthened its role as the leading air cargo gateway connecting North America with Latin America and the Caribbean.
The airport’s record-setting cargo volumes have also translated into significant economic benefits. According to the Miami-Dade Aviation Department, MIA’s continued growth has driven trade expansion, supported employment across the logistics sector, and generated new business opportunities throughout Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida. Earlier this month, the airport reported that its overall economic impact reached a record US$212 billion, supported in large part by booming cargo activity and sustained international trade.
The AFLAS honour further strengthens MIA’s reputation as one of the world’s foremost cargo gateways, recognising not only its operational excellence but also its critical contribution to global supply chains. As international freight demand continues to evolve, the airport remains well positioned to expand its role as a preferred logistics hub linking manufacturers, exporters and consumers across the Americas, Europe and Asia.
