GAO Report on Puerto Rico Air Cargo Operations and Infrastructure

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has released a report analyzing air cargo operations in Puerto Rico from 2015 to 2024. The report indicates that total air cargo volume fluctuated, reaching a high of 621 million pounds in 2024, with pharmaceuticals and medical devices comprising about half of outgoing cargo. While San Juan's airport has seen infrastructure improvements, stakeholders identified needs for enhanced warehouses, cold storage, and increased staffing for cargo inspections at all international airports to support future growth.

This report is informational and does not impose new regulatory requirements. However, entities involved in air cargo operations in Puerto Rico, particularly those in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, should be aware of the identified infrastructure and operational needs. The findings may inform future investment and policy decisions by relevant government agencies and industry stakeholders aiming to expand air cargo capacity and efficiency on the island.