Boeing Forecasts High Demand: China Requires 8,560 New Airplanes by 2042
Boeing predicts a soaring demand for 8,560 new commercial airplanes in China through 2042. This projection is fuelled by China’s remarkable economic growth, surpassing global averages, and an escalating appetite for domestic air travel. According to Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook (CMO), a comprehensive long-term forecast for commercial aircraft and related services, China’s commercial aircraft fleet is poised to more than double, reaching nearly 9,600 aircraft over the next two decades.
As the recovery of air travel continues in China, the CMO reveals that the nation will account for a significant one-fifth share of global airplane deliveries in the next 20 years. Furthermore, by the end of the forecast period, China is expected to boast the world’s largest domestic aviation market, driving demand for 6,470 single-aisle aircraft, including models like the Boeing 737 MAX.
“China’s domestic air traffic has not only rebounded to pre-pandemic levels but has also exceeded them, while international traffic is steadily recovering,” commented Darren Hulst, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Marketing. “With the sustained growth of China’s economy and air travel sector, Boeing’s extensive range of commercial aircraft will play a pivotal role in facilitating sustainable and cost-effective growth.”
Boeing’s 2023 China CMO outlines the following projections until 2042:
- Chinese carriers will require 1,550 widebody airplanes primarily to support the expansion of their international route networks.
- Fleet expansion will account for two-thirds of all projected deliveries in China, while the remaining third will involve replacing older aircraft with modern counterparts that offer enhanced efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
- The continued expansion of e-commerce and express shipping will stimulate demand for 190 new freighter aircraft.
- To cater to its burgeoning market, China will need to train 433,000 new aviation personnel, including 134,000 pilots, 138,000 technicians, and 161,000 cabin crew members.
- The robust growth of China’s commercial aircraft fleet will drive a demand of $675 billion for aviation services, encompassing maintenance, repair, training, and spare parts.
Projected Commercial Airplane Deliveries to China (2023-2042):
- Regional Jet: 350
- Single Aisle: 6,470
- Widebody: 1,550
- Freighter: 190
Total: 8,560
2023 marks the 50th anniversary of Boeing’s aircraft service in China. The journey began in 1972 when China placed an order for 10 707 jets, marking a significant modernization of its commercial fleet. The subsequent year witnessed the delivery of China’s first 707 to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). Today, Boeing aircraft form the cornerstone of China’s air travel and cargo logistics network.
The complete Boeing CMO forecast is available at http://www.boeing.com/commercial/market/commercial-market-outlook/
As a global leader in the aerospace industry, Boeing provides products and services to customers in over 150 countries. As a prominent U.S. exporter, the company leverages the expertise of a diverse global supplier base to advance economic opportunities, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s inclusive team is dedicated to innovation, upholding core values of safety, quality, and integrity while pioneering solutions for the future.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, boeing.com