Airbus Ups 20-Year Jet Demand Forecast Despite Trade Tensions

Airbus has recently made a notable revision to its 20-year jet demand forecast, increasing its projection despite ongoing trade tensions and global uncertainties.

This change reflects a shining future for the aviation industry. It also strengthens Airbus’ role in shaping air travel’s future.

Airbus Revises Forecast Amid Geopolitical Challenges

On Thursday, June 12, 2025, Airbus shared its updated forecast. They predict 43,420 commercial jets from 2025 to 2044. This figure indicates an increase of 2% from the final estimate. It also highlights the strength of the aviation market with challenges in global trade relations.

This forecast includes 42,450 passenger jets and 970 freighters. The passenger jet forecast also saw an increase, rising by 2%, while freighter deliveries were projected to grow by 3%.

The impact of geopolitical uncertainties and trade tensions cannot be ignored. Airbus is confident about the future. They believe that, even with trade issues and slowdowns in the global economy, the demand for air travel will keep increasing.

Airbus says air traffic growth will stay at 3.6 percent each year. This is true even with the unpredictable global environment.

Single-Aisle Jet Demand to Increase

One of the key updates in Airbus’ revised forecast is the increase in demand for single-aisle jets, particularly the A320neo family. These jets are popular due to their fuel efficiency and ability to serve a wide range of short- and medium-haul routes.

Airbus predicts demand will rise by 2%. This will bring the total forecast for single-aisle jets to 34,250 in the next 20 years.

This growth shows the trend in the aviation industry. Airlines are focusing on being cost-efficient and sustainable. The A320neo family and similar planes help meet these goals. This makes them very appealing to airlines around the globe.

Air travel is bouncing back from the pandemic. Airbus believes that fuel-efficient models will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for flights.

Wide-Body Jets See Increased Demand

8,200 wide-body jets are expected to be delivered in the next 20 years, a 3% increase.
These jets are used for long-haul international flights.
With global travel picking up, airlines are focusing on expanding long-distance routes.
Wide-body jets connect distant markets, making them essential for international travel.
Demand is expected to rise as air traffic grows by 3.6% annually.
The recovery of long-haul travel is supported by a growing middle class and more business travel.

Freighter Aircraft Demand Also On the Rise

3% increase in demand over the next 20 years.
By 2044, 970 freighters are expected to be delivered.
Freighters are crucial for fast, reliable shipping of goods over long distances.
As online shopping grows, companies need more air transport to meet consumer needs.
The market for freighters will remain strong as global trade patterns evolve.

Airbus Maintains Optimistic Growth Projections

Airbus is still confident about its long-term growth. This comes despite the ongoing trade tensions and geopolitical instability. The company has made a tiny change to its forecast. It now expects global GDP growth to be 2.5% each year. Also, the forecast for annual trade growth is down to 2.6%.

Airbus still sees strong growth in air traffic and jet demand. This shows the industry is resilient and can recover in the coming years.

Final Thoughts:

Airbus boosted its 20-year jet demand forecast. This shows the company’s strong belief in the aviation industry’s future, even with global uncertainties. Airbus expects to deliver over 43,000 jets, which include passenger planes and freighters. This puts them in a key position to influence the future of air travel.