Airbus has unveiled its latest regional market forecast, stating that the Asia-Pacific aviation sector is set to need 19,560 new aircraft in the next two decades. This figure represents 46% of the global demand for 42,520 new aircraft over the same period.

Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia-Pacific, discussed this update during the Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Annual Assembly of Presidents in Bangkok, highlighting the region’s ongoing growth and significance in the global aviation market.

“The Asia-Pacific region is entering an exciting phase of growth, fueled by strong demand for air travel and logistics. Airbus is committed to partnering with airlines across the region to deliver innovative and sustainable fleet solutions.”
Translation: “La región de Asia-Pacífico está entrando en una fase emocionante de crecimiento, impulsada por una fuerte demanda de viajes aéreos y logística. Airbus se compromete a asociarse con las aerolíneas en toda la región para ofrecer soluciones de flota innovadoras y sostenibles.”

Fleet Expansion and Passenger Traffic

The forecast, which encompasses both China and India, indicates that the region will experience a 4.4% annual growth rate, exceeding the global average of 3.6%. Demand will continue primarily for widebody aircraft, such as the A330neo and A350 Family, projected at around 3,500 aircraft—representing 43% of global demand in larger categories.
Furthermore, 16,100 single-aisle aircraft will be necessary to support regional short to medium-haul routes. Airbus estimates that 68% of deliveries will be for fleet expansion, while 32% will replace older models, aiding decarbonization initiatives.

Cargo and Passenger Market Forecast

The cargo segment is expected to require a fleet of about 850 cargo aircraft, making up roughly one-third of the global freighter fleet, with approximately 250 new-build aircraft expected to fulfill the demand.
The newly introduced A350F, based on the existing A350 platform, aims to meet this demand with enhanced efficiency and compliance with the latest emissions standards.
Additionally, the A350 has established a strong presence in the passenger market, serving long-haul operations with some 315 units currently in the Asia-Pacific region.