Air cargo operations in the Dominican Republic reached a monthly record of 10,972 metric tonnes in July 2026, up 3.5% year-on-year, according to airport operator AERODOM. The performance was supported by express freight, e-commerce and specialised shipments, while continued investment at Las Américas International Airport is expanding the country’s logistics capabilities.
Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI (AERODOM), a subsidiary of VINCI Airports, announced on August 25, 2026, that its six airports handled 10,972 metric tonnes of air cargo in July. The figure represents the highest monthly volume reported by the operator, exceeding the 10,599 tonnes recorded in July 2025.
The record reinforces the role of Las Américas International Airport, located near Santo Domingo, as the Dominican Republic’s principal air freight gateway and a growing platform for regional trade.
Imports, exports and Amerijet drive cargo activity
AERODOM reported 5,961 tonnes of imports and 5,011 tonnes of exports in July 2026, reflecting activity in both inbound supply chains and international shipments of Dominican products.
Amerijet International Airlines played a significant role in the month’s performance. The US cargo carrier handled 3,382 tonnes, establishing its own monthly record and accounting for approximately 31% of the freight processed by AERODOM.
The airport operator identified e-commerce, express delivery and courier services among the sectors supporting cargo activity. Specialised logistics operations also contributed, including shipments associated with the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games.
“The record achieved in July demonstrates the scale and capacity acquired by the Dominican Republic’s air cargo ecosystem,” said Cyril Girot, CEO of AERODOM, in the August 25 announcement.
The July performance follows an already strong first quarter of 2026, when AERODOM handled 26,985 tonnes of cargo. Import volumes increased by 13% year-on-year during that period, supported particularly by e-commerce and courier activities.
Las Américas builds on a record year
Las Américas International Airport, also known as AILA, handled 109,686 tonnes of freight in 2025, representing approximately 75% of the Dominican Republic’s total air cargo volume and 90% of its cargo value, according to AERODOM.
Across its six airports, AERODOM processed 111,331 tonnes in 2025, a 13% increase compared with 2024.
The annual results reflected stronger cargo flows towards several international markets:
- United States: +19%.
- The Caribbean: +13%.
- Europe: +8%.
AERODOM also reported the introduction of regular transit cargo operations between the United States and the Caribbean through Santo Domingo in 2025, extending the airport’s role beyond origin-and-destination freight.
The development of transit services creates additional opportunities for airlines and logistics operators seeking connections between regional and international markets.
Cargo infrastructure supports growing demand
The expansion of air freight activity is accompanied by investment in specialised facilities at Las Américas International Airport.
In August 2025, the Dominican Republic‘s Directorate General of Customs inaugurated a new express cargo terminal at the airport. Built with an investment of USD 10 million, the 4,858-square-metre facility was designed to increase processing capacity by 186%.
The terminal can handle more than four million additional parcels annually and incorporates X-ray inspection equipment to accelerate customs procedures.
Together with Cargo City, the facility forms part of the airport’s logistics ecosystem, bringing together airlines, freight forwarders, cargo handlers, customs authorities and other service providers.
For operators handling e-commerce shipments and time-sensitive goods, these facilities are intended to improve processing efficiency, traceability and cargo handling capacity.
Regional cargo connections continue to expand
Las Américas International Airport has also strengthened its international freight network.
In May 2026, AERODOM announced a third weekly Copa Cargo frequency connecting Santo Domingo, Havana and Panama City.
Operated by Caribe Cargo using Boeing 737-800F aircraft, the service offers up to 22 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight and provides access to further international connections through Tocumen International Airport in Panama.
The additional frequency illustrates how Las Américas is developing its regional connectivity alongside investments in ground infrastructure.
With cargo volumes already reaching new monthly highs, the next challenge for AERODOM will be to accommodate further growth while improving the efficiency of cargo handling and strengthening international connections.
The operator considers the July results a positive indication for 2026, although a new annual record has not yet been confirmed.
Source: AERODOM, August 25, 2026.
How much air cargo did the Dominican Republic handle in July 2026?
AERODOM handled a record 10,972 metric tonnes across its six airports in July 2026, representing a 3.5% increase year-on-year.
How much cargo did Amerijet handle in July 2026?
Amerijet transported 3,382 tonnes, accounting for approximately 31% of AERODOM’s monthly cargo volume.
What is the Dominican Republic’s main air cargo airport?
Las Américas International Airport, near Santo Domingo, handled approximately 75% of the country’s air cargo volume in 2025.
What infrastructure supports cargo growth at Las Américas?
The airport operates Cargo City and a new express cargo terminal inaugurated in August 2025, designed to process more than four million additional parcels annually.
