Cirium projects slowing production of single-aisle aircraft but long-term demand remains robust

Aviation analytics firm Cirium published its annual Fleet Forecast, which predicts 46,500 aircraft will be delivered globally over the next 20 years, equating to a total value of USD$3.4 trillion, as airlines continue to invest in newer, more sustainable aircraft. However, this year’s forecast comes as the aviation industry faces continued supply chain issues, geopolitical uncertainty, and delays to certification of new programmes, tempering the pace of fleet growth. The analysis projects a 6% reduction in deliveries over the next seven years compared to last year’s edition, mainly due to single-aisle aircraft production ramping up slower than expected. Long-term demand remains strong, with a 1% increase in deliveries overall. Other key findings include: Asia continues to drive fleet growth, accounting for 45% of deliveries, led by demand in China and India. Airbus and Boeing are projected to deliver 85% of aircraft and 92% by value through 2044, while COMAC is expected to capture 6% of global demand. Single-aisle aircraft now account for 71% of the global fleet, while twin-aisle and regional jets remain below pre-pandemic levels. Stephen Burnside, Global Head of Cirium Ascend Consultancy, said: “This year’s Cirium Fleet Forecast shows the global aviation industry is moving forward with confidence despite near-term headwinds. Long-term demand remains robust across every region, airlines continue to invest in fleet renewal, and OEMs continue to incrementally increase their R&D budgets in preparation for the next generation of aircraft families. The next chapter of aviation growth is being defined by the need for supply chain resilience, production capacity right sizing, product and service innovation, and a focus on efficiency.” Boeing production, deliveries improve Boeing’s 737 MAX commercial aircraft output this year has helped to put the nation’s largest aerospace firm on pace to produce its most aircraft since 2018. Boeing delivered 160 commercial aircraft during the third quarter of 2025 and 440 total so far this year, which is shaping up to be its most productive since 2018, when it delivered 806 aircraft, according to Boeing production records and media reports. Of the 440 commercial aircraft produced and delivered so far this year, 330 are the popular 737 MAX commercial aircraft. Boeing also has delivered 61 of its 787 Dreamliner, 29 Boeing 777 airliners and 20 of its 767 airliners. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Kay Rolland at [email protected]