Air Cargo and the Los Angeles Region
Some shipments cannot wait weeks on the ocean. Pharmaceuticals, electronics, fresh produce, fashion, and urgent machinery parts often travel by air, and Los Angeles International Airport is one of the busiest cargo airports in the world. Ontario International Airport also has a major cargo operation in the Inland Empire. For businesses in and around East Los Angeles, these airports provide fast access to markets across Asia, Latin America, Europe, and the rest of the United States.
Here are ten air cargo companies that move goods for Southern California businesses.
1. FedEx Express
FedEx Express is the world's largest express transportation company. It has a huge fleet of cargo aircraft and a global network. Its Los Angeles operations offer time-definite delivery for packages and freight, along with advanced tracking and customs clearance services.
2. UPS Airlines
UPS Airlines operates one of the largest cargo fleets in the world and supports UPS's global package and freight network. Ontario International Airport serves as a key West Coast air hub for UPS, close to the logistics corridor east of Los Angeles.
3. DHL Express
DHL Express is a global leader in international express shipping. It specializes in cross-border shipments and is especially strong in trade between the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
4. Atlas Air
Atlas Air operates large freighter aircraft, including Boeing 747 and 777 freighters, for airlines, freight forwarders, and e-commerce companies. Its charter and contract services support high-volume cargo flows through Los Angeles.
5. Cathay Cargo
Cathay Cargo, the cargo division of Cathay Pacific, connects Los Angeles with Hong Kong and the wider Asia-Pacific region. It is known for its expertise in handling pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value goods.
6. Korean Air Cargo
Korean Air is one of the world's largest cargo airlines. It operates frequent freighter flights between Los Angeles and Seoul, and its strong network across Asia makes it a key partner for electronics and manufacturing shipments.
7. China Airlines Cargo
China Airlines Cargo, based in Taiwan, offers frequent freighter service to Los Angeles and is especially important for shipping semiconductors and electronics between Asia and North America.
8. Lufthansa Cargo
Lufthansa Cargo is a leading European cargo airline with strong capabilities in temperature-controlled and specialized shipments. It connects Los Angeles with Europe and its broader global network.
9. Emirates SkyCargo
Emirates SkyCargo uses its Dubai hub to connect Los Angeles with destinations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It offers both freighter and passenger aircraft belly capacity, with specialized services for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and valuable goods.
10. Kalitta Air
Kalitta Air is an American cargo airline that operates large freighter aircraft for charter and scheduled cargo services. It supports both commercial customers and military logistics, providing flexible capacity for time-sensitive shipments.
Why Air Cargo Matters to Eastside Businesses
The industrial areas near East Los Angeles, including Commerce, Vernon, and City of Industry, are home to manufacturers, food processors, and fashion and apparel companies, many of which rely on air freight. Los Angeles is a major center for the apparel industry, and fast-fashion brands often use air cargo to bring new styles to market quickly. Food exporters also use air freight to send fresh California produce to Asian markets.
Air cargo also supports e-commerce. Online retailers use air shipping to fill inventory gaps quickly and offer fast delivery options. As consumer expectations for speed rise, air freight remains an important part of modern supply chains.
Air Cargo Trends in 2026
The air cargo industry continues to change. E-commerce volumes remain strong, especially on trans-Pacific routes. Airlines are converting passenger aircraft into freighters and ordering new, more fuel-efficient cargo planes. Sustainable aviation fuel is gaining traction as carriers work toward decarbonization goals.
Digital booking platforms are making it easier for shippers to compare rates and book capacity online, and real-time tracking and temperature monitoring are becoming standard for sensitive shipments. Cargo facilities at Los Angeles International Airport and Ontario are being modernized to handle growing volumes more efficiently.
Choosing an Air Cargo Partner
Most businesses book air freight through freight forwarders, who consolidate shipments and negotiate rates with airlines. When choosing a partner, consider transit times, route coverage, special handling capabilities, pricing, and customs expertise. Shippers of perishables or pharmaceuticals should confirm cold-chain capabilities and certifications.
For small packages and documents, integrated express carriers such as FedEx, UPS, and DHL offer door-to-door service with simple pricing and tracking. For larger shipments, cargo airlines and charter operators offer more capacity and flexibility.
Conclusion
Air cargo companies give Southern California businesses fast access to global markets. Express giants like FedEx, UPS, and DHL, along with major cargo airlines such as Korean Air, Cathay Cargo, and Lufthansa Cargo, keep high-value and time-sensitive goods moving. For East Los Angeles manufacturers, retailers, and exporters, these carriers are an important link to customers around the world.