U.S. aircraft manufacturer Boeing has announced a slight increase in its annual 20-year forecast for new jetliner deliveries.

The revised projection, released ahead of the Paris Airshow, predicts that airlines will need to acquire 42,595 jets between now and 2042, up from the previous estimate of 41,170 planes.

The surge in demand is primarily driven by the robust narrowbody market, bolstered by the needs of low-cost carriers. Although the current forecast remains lower than the previous year’s prediction, Boeing anticipates significant growth in the narrowbody segment, with single-aisle jets expected to dominate deliveries.

Boeing foresees a prominent role for narrowbody aircraft in future deliveries, with approximately 32,420 single-aisle jets, including its 737 MAX and Airbus’s A320neo family, expected to be delivered by 2042.

The surge in demand for these aircraft will be primarily fueled by the expansion plans of low-cost carriers, who are projected to double the size of their existing fleets. This shift in focus toward narrowbody planes has led to a reduction in demand for regional jets compared to the previous year.

Factors Shaping the Delivery Forecast

Strong Demand for Narrowbody Jets: Boeing’s revised forecast highlights the increasing preference for narrowbody jets, such as the 737 MAX and A320neo family.

The popularity of these single-aisle planes stems from their operational efficiency, versatility, and ability to cater to the requirements of low-cost carriers. The projected surge in deliveries reflects the industry’s confidence in the continued demand for these aircraft.

Replacement and Fleet Growth

According to Boeing, around half of the new jet deliveries will be replacements for older models, while the other half will contribute to the expansion of airlines’ fleets. This indicates that airlines are seeking to modernize their aircraft to enhance efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and offer improved passenger experiences.

Simultaneously, the growing global air travel demand is prompting airlines to expand their operations, leading to fleet growth.

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