Airbus forecasts aviation services market doubling by 2045

Airbus projects worldwide demand for aviation services above US$420 billion in 2045, twice the 2026 level. Released on 14 October, its forecast covers maintenance, training and digital services, among other activities. The manufacturer expects fleet expansion to increase staffing needs, projecting cumulative demand for more than 2.44 million additional maintenance technicians, pilots and cabin crew.

The services market includes more than aircraft sales. Maintenance, technical and crew training, and digital systems are required throughout an aircraft's operational life. Airbus links its projection to fleet growth and replacement over future decades. These are commercial estimates, not revenue already earned or guaranteed future employment.

For people travelling, the impact is indirect: a larger maintenance and training sector may support more aircraft in operation, but it cannot predict ticket prices in 2045 or the status of a future flight. A forecast issued by an aircraft manufacturer must also be distinguished from an observed operational statistic reported by an aviation authority.