With the region resuming above-average growth following pandemic recovery, Boeing has forecast that widebody aeroplanes will comprise 45 pc of deliveries to Middle East airlines over the next 20 years, the highest percentage of the 10 global regions in its Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) forecast.

American aircraft manufacturer Boeing says that over the next 20 years widebody aircraft will account for the largest share of deliveries to Middle Eastern airlines, about 45 pc, among the 10 worldwide regions featured. 

In its CMO forecast, Boeing says that the annual long-term forecast of demand for commercial aeroplanes and services, the Middle Eastern region’s fleet of dedicated freighters is projected to more than double to 180 jets by 2042. The CMO projects delivery of 3,025 new commercial aeroplanes in the Middle East by 2042, including 1,350 widebodies. 

“Airlines in the Middle East have increasingly expanded their influence and reach, transforming the region into an international air transit hub. Air travel and cargo demand continue to gain momentum, driven by significant economic growth and national development plans. As airlines in the region will require efficient and versatile fleet solutions, Boeing products will be ready to meet market demands,” says Darren Hulst, Vice President of Commercial Marketing of Boeing.

Many airlines in the region provide service between major population centres in Asia, Africa and Europe via growing hubs that offer efficient connectivity. As a result, a higher proportion of widebody aircraft are needed to carry larger passenger volumes.

The statement adds that the Middle East single-aisle fleet is also expected to more than double as low-cost carriers (LCC) and short-haul networks continue to develop and expand. By 2042, nearly half of the region’s aircraft will be single-aisle jets.

According to the report, two-thirds of new deliveries will support air traffic and cargo growth. One-third of deliveries will replace older aeroplanes with more fuel-efficient models. The total fleet will increase 2.4 times to 3,360 aeroplanes, where 1,610 or 48 pc, will be single aisles, while 1,520 or 45 pc, will be widebodies. The commercial fleet will generate demand for USD 335 billion in aviation services including maintenance, repair, training and spare parts.