Airbus Forecast Global Aviation Services Market Growth
The aviation services market is projected to double in value to over US$420 billion by 2045.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Air Travel
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Airbus has projected that the global aviation services market will reach a valuation of more than US$420 billion by 2045. This growth is supported by a 3.8% compound annual growth rate driven by an aging global fleet requiring more maintenance.
Why it matters
The industry faces a significant labor shortage as it seeks to scale operations to support 10 billion annual passengers. Addressing disruptions is a financial imperative, as the sector lost $43 billion to such issues in 2025.
The global aircraft fleet is expected to reach 45,500 planes by 2045, with the off-wing maintenance sector alone projected to reach $217 billion. Digital connectivity is also expected to triple in value to $27 billion over the same period.
The players
Airbus
Airbus is a global leader in aeronautics, space, and related services that manufactures commercial aircraft and defense systems.
The details
Industry projections rely on integrating predictive operations and fleet modernization to handle the growing passenger volume. Enhanced digital connectivity is expected to play a critical role, with potential to reduce annual disruption losses by 30%.
Timeline
In 2025, airline disruptions resulted in $43 billion in losses.
The 20-year aviation growth forecast begins in 2026.
The target date for the aviation services market to double is 2045.
Travel Outlook
The industry's growth trajectory mirrors long-term trends in global air travel demand that extend beyond seasonal fluctuations. This expansion is consistent with the historical reliance on recurring maintenance and digital solutions as foundational pillars for global aviation operations.
Passengers may eventually experience fewer flight delays and cancellations as airlines implement predictive maintenance and digital connectivity to mitigate disruption losses. Improved infrastructure and a larger technician workforce aim to create a more stable and reliable experience for international travelers.
The takeaway
The industry must focus on training 2.44 million new professionals to maintain the safety and efficiency of the projected 45,500-plane fleet. Travelers can expect digital-first operations to play an increasingly central role in reducing travel disruptions over the coming decades.
Further reading
For more context on the current state of the industry, visit /travel/air-travel/.
Live Poll
Do you expect the coming growth in global air travel to make flying a better experience?
