Airbus updates its development plan for the next twenty years

One of the world’s largest aircraft manufacturers, Airbus, has updated its global market forecast for the next 20 years. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

The company has slightly lowered its expectations for market growth compared to previous assessments. It now emphasizes that its primary focus is no longer on large aircraft, but on developing compact and fuel-efficient models.

This shift reflects the ongoing transformation of aviation systems worldwide. According to the new report, airlines worldwide will take delivery of a total of 42,060 new passenger aircraft between 2026 and 2045.

This figure is one percent lower than earlier forecasts. Airbus analysts say the calculation takes into account not only its own products, but also major competitors and regional programs.

The slowdown in market growth is attributed to global geopolitical instability and various trade restrictions. Antonio da Kosta, head of market analysis at Airbus, stressed that the post-pandemic recovery in aviation has already reached its peak.

Airlines are now focusing less on simply expanding their fleets and more on renewing them efficiently. It is projected that nearly 47 percent of the new aircraft ordered will be used to replace older models.

In previous reports, this share was estimated at 45 percent. The biggest shift in Airbus’s strategy has been moving away from the concept of very large aircraft.

After production of the A380 — once considered the queen of the skies — was halted, Airbus is now investing in compact models such as the A220 and A321XLR. These aircraft enable airlines to operate direct flights between cities without relying on large hub airports.

This saves time and improves convenience for passengers. Nearly 33,920 of the expected deliveries — about the majority of future demand — will be single-aisle, narrow-body aircraft.

Competition between Airbus and other major manufacturers in this segment is expected to intensify. Regionally, Asia remains the primary driver of global aviation growth.

Nearly half of the new aircraft deliveries are planned for countries in this region. Notably, Airbus expresses strong confidence in the Indian market.

The forecast for domestic aviation growth in India has been significantly raised. In contrast, expectations for China have been slightly lowered.

For emerging markets like Uzbekistan, modern compact and long-range models are seen as highly advantageous for launching new international routes.

The situation in the Middle East and volatile fuel prices are pushing airlines to adopt a more cautious approach.

As a result, Airbus is now looking ahead not just in terms of capacity, but also in efficiency and operational flexibility.