This study presents a paradigm shift in the air cargo market based on Korea and Incheon Airport’s empirical data. The air cargo market has traditionally handled expensive items and has been a supplier-oriented market. There has been little room for individual customers in this market. However, “value” gradually replaces “price” in this market. The value depending on consumer preferences significantly impact air cargo demand. Consequently, items transported by air cargo are changing, and airlines and other market participants are revising operation policy. Economic growth may be losing its dominant power as the main growth engine in the air cargo market. This study identifies the weakened link between air cargo increase and economic growth based on the Granger causality test. COVID-19 calls for a deeper understanding of the paradigm shift in the market for sustainable air transport because COVID-19 will further stimulate it. In this regard, the air cargo business, which maintains a stable trend even during COVID-19, is seen as a new opportunity for the aviation industry. Since sustainable air transport requires an accurate understanding of the paradigm shift in the air cargo market, this study enhances our knowledge of the paradigm shift and provides significant implications for sustainable air transport.