Emerging markets with growing middle-class populations and competitive airline networks will be a major force in global air travel over the next two decades, according to Boeing’s latest forecast. The company expects airlines will need 43,600 new commercial aircraft by 2044 to keep up with rising demand, much of it from Asia, Africa and Latin America.
Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook shows that these fast-growing markets will make up over half of the world’s commercial aircraft fleet by 2044, increasing from around 40% in 2024. The report also predicts that by the end of this decade, plane supply will catch up with demand, allowing airlines to focus on replacing older jets with more efficient models.
Passenger numbers are expected to grow by 4.2% each year, more than doubling over the 20-year period. The global fleet will grow to nearly 50,000 aircraft, with single-aisle jets making up the majority. Widebody aircraft used for long-haul flights will also see strong growth, particularly in emerging regions. Boeing also sees major expansion in the global freighter fleet, supported by increasing e-commerce and demand for cargo transport.
