Airbus is projecting that the Asia-Pacific aviation sector will require 19,500 new aircraft over the next 20 years. This demand represents 46 percent of the global requirement, which is expected to reach around 42,430 new aircraft by 2043.
The Asia-Pacific forecast, which includes China and India, reflects a year-on-year growth of 3 percent in terms of new aircraft needed. With this surge in demand, the region’s fleet will continue to expand, driven by both growth and replacement needs, with sustainability initiatives becoming more prevalent.
Airbus anticipates the need for 16,000 single-aisle aircraft, such as the A220 and A320neo Family, to support the region’s short-to-medium haul routes.
At the same time, demand for medium- and large-sized long-range aircraft, like the A330neo and A350, will total approximately 3,500 aircraft. Key recent widebody aircraft orders in the region include Cathay Pacific (A330neo), as well as EVA Air, Japan Airlines and Korean Air (A350), with several other ongoing campaigns expected to fuel growth.
Airbus estimates that nearly 71 percent of the aircraft deliveries will support fleet expansion, while 29 percent will replace older models, significantly contributing to decarbonisation efforts.
The next generation of Airbus widebody aircraft offers an immediate 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in carbon emissions. These advancements reflect Airbus’ commitment to supporting the aviation industry’s goal of minimising its environmental footprint.
In the cargo segment, Asia-Pacific is expected to require 250 new widebody freighter aircraft, representing 10 percent of global demand for new freighters. The A350F, based on the proven A350 platform, is poised to meet this demand with superior efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and best-in-class economics.
The A350F also complies with the latest ICAO emissions standards, positioning it as the frontrunner in the large freighter market. A key endorsement of this model from the region comes from STARLUX Airlines, which ordered five A350Fs earlier this year.
In passenger traffic, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to have an annual growth rate of 4.8%, outpacing the global growth rate of 3.6 percent. Widebody aircraft are pivotal to this growth, not only enhancing passenger connectivity but also supporting the region’s increasing cargo needs.
