SEATTLE: Boeing has projected a robust future for air cargo traffic, predicting an average annual increase of 4% through 2043. This forecast comes as the air cargo market continues to surpass pre-pandemic levels.
According to Emirates News Agency, Boeing anticipates the global air cargo fleet will expand significantly, reaching 3,900 airplanes by 2043. This marks a substantial rise from the current fleet of 2,340 freighters in 2023. The growth is largely attributed to high demand in Asian markets, where the large widebody freighter fleet is expected to nearly double.
The company’s analysis highlights that nearly half of the production and conversion deliveries will focus on replacing older freighters with more advanced and fuel-efficient models. Despite the introduction of newer models, many older jets have remained operational due to market demands.
Boeing’s forecast indicates that the East and South Asian markets are poised for the highest annual traffic growth, driven by expanding economies and increasi
ng consumer demand. The Asia-Pacific fleet is expected to nearly triple, necessitating 980 deliveries, while North America will require 955 deliveries. Together, these regions will account for over two-thirds of the global deliveries.
Furthermore, India’s domestic air cargo market is anticipated to nearly quadruple, spurred by the expansion of express and e-commerce networks.
