MRO & Manufacturing
Airbus Forecasts Aviation Aftermarket Growth to 311 Billion by 2044
Airbus projects the aviation aftermarket to nearly double to $311 billion by 2044, driven by fleet expansion and digital innovation.
Airbus Global Services Forecast 2025-2044: Navigating the Future of Aviation Aftermarket
The aviation industry stands on the cusp of significant transformation, driven by evolving passenger demand, rapid technological advancements, and the need for sustainable operations. The Airbus Global Services Forecast (GSF) 2025-2044 offers a comprehensive outlook on the future of aviation aftermarket services, highlighting the sector’s anticipated growth and the key factors shaping its trajectory.
As the global commercial aircraft fleet expands and passenger numbers are set to double, aftermarket services, ranging from maintenance to digital solutions, are poised to play a pivotal role in supporting airline operations and ensuring safety, efficiency, and profitability. The GSF not only quantifies this growth but also categorizes it across five strategic pillars, offering industry stakeholders a roadmap for the coming two decades.
This analysis breaks down the GSF’s major projections, explores the drivers behind the burgeoning aviation services market, and examines the implications for airlines, maintenance providers, and the broader aerospace ecosystem.
Growth Projections and Market Dynamics
According to the Airbus Global Services Forecast, the aviation aftermarket services sector is expected to nearly double in value by 2044, reaching an estimated US$311 billion. This growth is underpinned by a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% from 2025 to 2044, with a notable 10% year-over-year increase in demand anticipated in 2025 alone.
The expansion of the global commercial aircraft fleet is a primary driver of this surge. By 2044, the fleet is expected to grow to over 49,000 aircraft, nearly double its current size. This expansion is fueled by both the replacement of aging aircraft, 44% of new deliveries are expected to replace older models, and increased utilization rates as airlines respond to rebounding passenger traffic and evolving market needs.
Passenger numbers are forecasted to double, reaching 10 billion by 2044. This escalation in demand for air travel necessitates robust support in areas such as maintenance, crew training, digitalization, and operational efficiency. The services market, valued at US$159 billion in 2024, is thus set for significant expansion across all key segments.
“The aviation aftermarket is projected to reach US$311 billion by 2044, nearly doubling in value over two decades, as global passenger traffic and aircraft fleets expand.”
Key Market Drivers
Several factors are converging to drive the growth of aviation aftermarket services. The modernization of fleets is a significant catalyst, with airlines investing in newer, more efficient aircraft to meet regulatory requirements, reduce emissions, and enhance passenger experience. This shift not only increases the demand for maintenance and upgrades but also for advanced digital solutions that optimize operations.
Increased aircraft utilization is another critical factor. As airlines maximize fleet deployment to capture rising passenger demand, the need for timely and effective maintenance, training, and operational support becomes more pronounced. This includes both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, as well as real-time monitoring and predictive analytics enabled by digital technologies.
Finally, the evolving regulatory landscape and the push for sustainability are prompting airlines to invest in modifications and upgrades that improve fuel efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and ensure compliance with international standards.
The Five Pillars of Aviation Support
To provide a clear framework for understanding the aftermarket’s evolution, Airbus categorizes the services market into five main pillars: Off-Wing Maintenance, On-Wing Maintenance, Modifications & Upgrades, Digital & Connectivity, and Training. Each pillar addresses distinct yet interconnected aspects of aircraft support and operational excellence.
Off-Wing Maintenance
Off-Wing Maintenance remains the largest segment of the aviation aftermarket. It encompasses essential services such as major component repairs, overhauls, and the supply of spare parts. This segment is projected to grow from US$107 billion in 2025 to US$218 billion by 2044, with material supply accounting for 85% of its value.
The longevity and reliability of aircraft are directly tied to the quality and availability of off-wing maintenance services. As fleets age and expand, the demand for high-quality parts and comprehensive overhaul solutions will continue to rise. This segment is fundamental to maintaining aircraft value and ensuring operational readiness over the long term.
Industry stakeholders are increasingly focusing on supply chain resilience, cost optimization, and leveraging partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to meet the growing needs of airlines worldwide.
On-Wing Maintenance
On-Wing Maintenance, valued at US$21 billion in 2025 and forecast to reach US$34 billion by 2044, covers the spectrum of day-to-day line and base maintenance activities. These services are critical for ensuring high fleet availability and reliability, enabling airlines to maintain tight schedules and minimize operational disruptions.
The increasing complexity of modern aircraft, coupled with the need for rapid turnaround times, has elevated the importance of on-wing maintenance. Airlines are investing in advanced diagnostic tools, mobile maintenance solutions, and digital platforms to streamline these processes and enhance efficiency.
As the global fleet grows and utilization rates climb, the ability to perform timely and effective on-wing maintenance will be a key differentiator for airlines seeking to maintain a competitive edge.
Modifications & Upgrades
This sector, projected to be worth US$17 billion by 2044 (up from US$12 billion in 2025), focuses on cabin retrofits, systems upgrades, and enhancements designed to improve passenger experience, safety, and fuel efficiency. Airlines are increasingly turning to modifications and upgrades to differentiate their offerings and comply with evolving regulatory requirements.
Cabin retrofits, for instance, enable airlines to introduce new seating configurations, in-flight entertainment systems, and connectivity solutions, catering to changing passenger expectations. Systems upgrades, such as avionics enhancements and fuel-saving modifications, contribute to operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The dynamic nature of this segment reflects the industry’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation in response to technological innovation and market trends.
Digital & Connectivity
Digital & Connectivity is the fastest-growing pillar, expected to nearly triple in value from US$9 billion in 2025 to US$26 billion by 2044. The adoption of digital solutions, ranging from predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring to connected aircraft systems, offers significant potential for operational efficiencies.
Airbus projects that digital technologies could save airlines up to US$83 billion by 2044. The number of digitally connected aircraft is anticipated to increase from 11,000 to over 40,000 during this period, reflecting the industry’s embrace of data-driven decision-making and automation.
These advancements are not only enhancing safety and reliability but also enabling airlines to optimize costs, improve customer service, and respond proactively to maintenance and operational issues.
“The number of digitally connected aircraft is expected to rise from 11,000 to over 40,000 by 2044, underscoring the transformative impact of digitalization on aviation operations.”
Training
The human element remains central to aviation’s future. The training segment is projected to grow from US$10 billion in 2025 to US$17 billion by 2044, driven by the need to recruit and train 2.35 million new professionals, including 633,000 pilots, 705,000 technicians, and 1.01 million cabin crew members.
This demand reflects both the expansion of the global fleet and the replacement of an aging workforce, particularly in mature markets. Training providers face the dual challenge of scaling capacity to meet rising demand and incorporating new technologies and methodologies to ensure effective learning outcomes.
Emerging economies are expected to play a significant role in meeting this need, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the global aviation training ecosystem.
Expanding Ecosystem and Regional Trends
Beyond the five core pillars, Airbus identifies two additional areas of growing customer demand: maintenance operations support and ground operations. Maintenance operations support is projected to be worth US$100 billion by 2044, while ground operations are expected to reach US$74 billion.
These segments are integral to the broader aviation services ecosystem, supporting efficient fleet management, turnaround times, and overall operational performance. As airlines seek to optimize every aspect of their operations, the demand for comprehensive and integrated support solutions will continue to grow.
Geographically, the GSF highlights a pronounced shift in growth towards the east. By 2044, the Asia-Pacific, China, and South Asia regions are expected to account for approximately 45% of total services demand. South Asia is projected to experience the highest growth rate, while Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) will represent the largest cumulative demand over the forecast period. The three largest services markets by 2044 are anticipated to be China, Europe & CIS, and North America.
“By 2044, Asia-Pacific, China, and South Asia will represent nearly half of the global demand for aviation services, signaling a significant shift in the industry’s geographic center of gravity.”
Conclusion: Charting a Course for the Next Two Decades
The Airbus Global Services Forecast 2025-2044 paints a picture of robust growth and transformation for the aviation aftermarket. As fleets expand and passenger numbers rise, the demand for high-quality, efficient, and innovative services will intensify across all segments of the market.
Industry stakeholders, airlines, maintenance providers, OEMs, and training institutions, must adapt to new realities, leveraging digital technologies, investing in workforce development, and building resilient supply chains. The next two decades will be defined by collaboration, innovation, and a relentless focus on operational excellence as aviation navigates an era of unprecedented change.
FAQ
What is the Airbus Global Services Forecast (GSF)?
The GSF is an industry report published by Airbus that projects the growth and trends of the aviation aftermarket services sector over a 20-year period.
How large is the aviation aftermarket expected to be by 2044?
The aviation aftermarket is projected to reach a value of US$311 billion by 2044, nearly doubling its current size.
Which regions will drive the most growth in aviation services?
Asia-Pacific, China, and South Asia are expected to account for approximately 45% of global services demand by 2044.
What are the main segments of the aviation aftermarket?
The five main pillars are Off-Wing Maintenance, On-Wing Maintenance, Modifications & Upgrades, Digital & Connectivity, and Training.
How will digitalization impact the aviation aftermarket?
Digital technologies are expected to deliver significant operational efficiencies, with the number of digitally connected aircraft projected to rise from 11,000 to over 40,000 by 2044.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
MRO & Manufacturing
Safran Nacelles Delivers 5000th A320neo Nacelle
Safran Nacelles hits 5,000 A320neo nacelles with 100% on-time delivery and plans to scale output to 1,000 units per year.
Safran Nacelles has delivered its 5,000th nacelle for the Airbus A320neo program, maintaining a 100 percent on-time delivery rate as the manufacturer prepares to scale production to 1,000 units annually.
The milestone was celebrated on June 30, 2026, at Safran’s Colomiers facility near the Airbus final assembly line in Toulouse, France. According to a company press release, the achievement highlights the rapid production ramp-up required to support Airbus amid ongoing global Supply-Chain pressures.
Scaling production and supply chain performance
Safran Nacelles, working in conjunction with Middle River Aerostructure Systems, has insulated its A320neo nacelle output from broader industry bottlenecks. The company reported a flawless on-time Delivery record for the program to date, a metric it intends to protect as output increases.
What we are experiencing with the A320neo is unprecedented. This 5,000th Nacelle marks an important milestone and demonstrates the exceptional momentum of the programme. As demand continues to grow, we are preparing to produce up to 1,000 nacelles per year to support Airbus and Airlines around the world.
The statement from Safran Nacelles CEO Vincent Caro underscores the pressure on Tier 1 suppliers to match the pace of aircraft original equipment OEMs as they work through historic backlogs.
Airbus delivery targets and backlog pressure
The push for 1,000 nacelles per year aligns directly with Airbus’s aggressive production schedules. The European airframer is targeting 870 Commercial-Aircraft deliveries in 2026. Through the end of May 2026, Airbus had handed over 262 aircraft to 68 customers, including 81 deliveries in May alone.
The Airbus A320 family recently surpassed 20,000 total orders, cementing its status as a primary revenue driver for both Airbus and its supply chain partners. Fulfilling this backlog requires synchronized output across all major component providers, making nacelle availability a critical factor in final assembly.
AirPro News analysis
We view Safran’s 100 percent on-time delivery rate as a notable outlier in an aerospace supply chain otherwise defined by chronic delays and material shortages. Achieving a production rate of 1,000 nacelles annually will test the resilience of Safran’s sub-tier suppliers. If the company can maintain its delivery metrics at that volume, it will remove a critical potential chokepoint for Airbus as the airframer chases its 870-aircraft target for 2026.
Sources: Safran Group
Photo Credit: Safran Group
MRO & Manufacturing
FTG Opens First India Facility in Hyderabad Aerospace Park
Firan Technology Group opened its Hyderabad facility on June 29, 2026, producing avionics and cockpit electronics for global OEMs.
Firan Technology Group Corporation (FTG) officially opened its first Indian manufacturing facility on June 29, 2026, establishing a new production hub for cockpit and avionics components within the GMR Aerospace and Industrial Park in Hyderabad.
Announced via a company press release, the FTG Aerospace Hyderabad facility culminates a three-year strategic effort to expand the Canadian manufacturer’s global footprint. The new site provides low-cost capacity to support Western demand for commercial and defense aerospace products while mitigating risks associated with restrictive trade policies in other global markets.
Strategic expansion and local integration
The customized Built-to-Suit unit was developed by GMR Hyderabad Aviation SEZ Limited (GHASL). It is situated within a 277-acre aerospace and industrial park, integrating FTG into an established airport-led ecosystem. The facility will focus on designing and manufacturing high-reliability printed circuit boards (PCBs), illuminated cockpit products, electronic assemblies, and cockpit interface electronics for global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
In the press release, FTG President and CEO Brad Bourne described the opening as a strategic milestone for the company.
“GMR’s world-class Built-to-Suit infrastructure and integrated, airport-led ecosystem give us an ideal platform to deliver the high-reliability avionics and cockpit interface electronics our global OEM customers depend on,” Bourne stated.
Bourne also noted that significant work remains to fully operationalize the site. The company is currently focused on adding and training staff, securing necessary industry certifications, obtaining customer approvals, and ramping up production.
Aligning with domestic manufacturing initiatives
The Hyderabad operation brings FTG’s manufacturing presence to four countries, joining existing facilities in Canada, the United States, and China. The expansion aligns directly with the Indian government’s “Make in India” policy, positioning the company to serve both domestic defense requirements and international export markets.
Aman Kapoor, CEO of GMR Airport Land Development, stated that the launch marks a significant step in building a globally competitive aerospace manufacturing ecosystem in the region. Kapoor emphasized that FTG’s presence will strengthen domestic supply chains and advance indigenization efforts, further cementing Hyderabad as a primary hub for aerospace and industrial innovation.
AirPro News analysis
We view FTG’s expansion into India as a calculated hedge against ongoing geopolitical and trade friction. By establishing a secondary low-cost manufacturing base outside of China, FTG provides its Western aerospace and defense customers with a more resilient supply chain. The choice of Hyderabad specifically leverages an existing aerospace cluster, which should help accelerate the complex certification and approval processes required for aviation electronics production.
Sources: Firan Technology Group Corporation
Photo Credit: The Hindu
MRO & Manufacturing
Embraer Acquires Full Ownership of EZ Air Interior
Embraer buys remaining 50% of EZ Air from Safran Cabin to secure E-Jet cabin supply ahead of a major production ramp-up.
Embraer has taken full ownership of its interior components supplier, EZ Air Interior Limited, acquiring the remaining 50 percent stake from Safran Cabin on July 1, 2026, to secure its supply chain amid a major production ramp-up.
The transaction, announced in a company press release, gives the Brazilian aerospace manufacturers complete control over the production of critical cabin elements for its E-Jets family. The agreement also includes the integration of specific Safran Cabin operations located in JacareÃ, Brazil, into Embraer’s manufacturing footprint.
Consolidating the cabin supply chain
Established in 2012 in Chihuahua, Mexico, EZ Air was originally formed as a joint venture between Embraer and C&D, a company that was later absorbed into Safran Cabin. The Chihuahua facility specializes in manufacturing essential interior components, including luggage bins, galleys, lavatories, and floor panels for commercial-aircraft.
Embraer President and Chief Executive Officer Francisco Gomes Neto stated the acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to expand operations in both the short and long term, while continuously evaluating opportunities to create value for stakeholders.
“I would like to thank Safran Cabin for this successful long-term partnership and warmly welcome the new colleagues joining Embraer. Together, we will continue to deliver excellence driven by safety, quality, efficiency and sustainability,” Gomes Neto said.
Production targets and backlog pressures
Embraer is actively working to stabilize its supply-chain to meet a record firm order backlog, which reached $32.1 billion in the first quarter of 2026. The manufacturer is targeting an annual production rate of approximately 100 E-Jet aircraft by 2027 or 2028.
Securing full ownership of EZ Air mitigates execution risks as Embraer increases the output of its E175 and E2 family aircraft. By bringing the production of critical interior components entirely in-house, the company aims to insulate its final assembly lines from external supplier delays.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a defensive vertical integration move typical of the current aerospace manufacturing environment. With global supply chains remaining fragile, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly bringing critical component production in-house to prevent bottlenecks. By taking full control of EZ Air, Embraer eliminates a potential single point of failure in its E-Jet assembly line, ensuring that cabin interior shortages do not derail its ambitious delivery targets over the next two years.
Sources: Embraer
Photo Credit: Embraer
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