The global aviation industry is set for massive expansion over the next two decades, with the Asia-Pacific region emerging as the biggest growth centre. According to the latest industry outlook, airlines across Asia-Pacific will require 19,560 new aircraft by 2045, driven primarily by the rapid rise in air travel demand in India and China.
Airbus, one of the world’s largest aircraft manufacturers, said that India and China together will account for almost half of this demand, fuelled by growing middle-class populations, expanding airport infrastructure, and an increase in domestic as well as international travel.
India’s Aviation Market Rising Rapidly
India continues to be one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. With urbanisation, rising disposable incomes, and increasing connectivity to smaller cities, domestic air traffic has consistently shown double-digit growth in the past few years.
The government’s major focus on strengthening regional connectivity through schemes like UDAN, building new airports, and upgrading existing ones has created strong momentum for fleet expansion. Airlines in India are already placing record-breaking aircraft orders to service future demand.
China Remains a Global Aviation Powerhouse
China continues to be Asia’s largest aviation market and one of the biggest in the world. The country is consistently expanding both domestic and international routes, supported by major airport developments, including several large multi-terminal projects.
With economic growth stabilising and travel sentiment improving, Chinese airlines are expected to significantly increase their fleets over the next twenty years.
What Is Driving the Demand?
Industry experts highlight several key factors behind the aviation boom in Asia-Pacific:
- A rapidly expanding middle class gaining access to air travel
- Massive airport development and modernisation across the region
- Growth of low-cost carriers (LCCs) that have made flying more affordable
- Strong domestic travel markets in India and China
- Increase in business and leisure international travel
Airbus expects that a large portion of the new aircraft will be fuel-efficient single-aisle jets, which are ideal for domestic and short-haul international routes where most of the growth is concentrated.
Impact on the Global Aviation Landscape
With nearly half of the world’s aircraft demand coming from Asia-Pacific, global aviation strategies are shifting eastward. Aircraft makers, engine suppliers, and aviation service companies are expected to heavily invest in the region to meet future requirements.
India, in particular, is seen as a major hub for aircraft maintenance, leasing, and training in the coming years.
A Sky Full of Opportunities
The Asia-Pacific boom signals a long-term growth story for airlines, manufacturers, airports, and related sectors. As India and China continue to expand economically and socially, their aviation sectors are poised to play a dominant role in shaping the future of global air travel.
