(MENAFN- The Arabian Post)

Airbus has forecasted a significant expansion in the Middle East's aviation sector, predicting the need for 4,080 new passenger aircraft deliveries over the next two decades. This growth is expected to bring the region's in-service fleet from 1,480 aircraft in 2024 to 3,700 by 2044, reflecting the region's expanding demand for air travel.

The Middle East has long been a key player in global aviation, and this forecast highlights the continued importance of the sector in the region's economic future. Airbus has attributed this surge in aircraft demand to the ongoing recovery of global air traffic, alongside the region's strategic position as a transit hub connecting East and West. Over the past few years, the aviation industry has rebounded sharply, and the Middle East's airline networks are set to expand further, contributing to increased demand for modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.

The demand for new aircraft is being driven by both the region's existing airline networks and the growing number of low-cost carriers that are enhancing accessibility to air travel. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are among the leading nations in terms of aircraft requirements, with major airline groups, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Saudi Arabian Airlines, all planning significant fleet expansions. These airlines are expected to receive a substantial portion of the forecasted aircraft deliveries, with an emphasis on widebody planes designed for long-haul routes, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787.

The increasing demand for air travel in the Middle East is not just limited to commercial airlines but also extends to cargo operations. The Middle East has become a major logistics and transport hub, with airports like Dubai International and Hamad International in Doha serving as critical nodes in the global supply chain. As such, the demand for freighters and dedicated cargo aircraft is also expected to rise alongside passenger planes, underlining the region's strategic significance in both passenger and freight aviation.

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In addition to expanding fleets, airlines in the region are looking to modernise their operations by introducing new, environmentally-friendly aircraft. Airbus has noted that many of the new deliveries will be of the latest, most fuel-efficient models. This is in line with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions in aviation, as airlines increasingly focus on sustainability. The region's aviation authorities are also backing initiatives to implement green technologies, with a goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The move towards greener aircraft is being driven by both regulatory frameworks and consumer demand for more sustainable air travel options.

Airbus's forecast highlights the region's growing role as a hub for innovation in aviation, where the integration of technology and advanced systems is playing a major role. The adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning in operational planning, customer service, and air traffic control is expected to become more widespread, creating efficiencies that could make flying even more affordable and accessible for the public. These technological advancements, combined with fleet expansions, will further position the Middle East as an aviation leader globally.

The long-term forecast also predicts a steady recovery in tourism, a major driver of air travel demand, particularly in the Gulf states. With the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar continuing to invest in tourism infrastructure, the Middle East is set to benefit from an influx of international visitors in the coming years. This trend is expected to further fuel demand for flights and, by extension, the growth of airline fleets. Events such as the World Expo in Dubai and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 are anticipated to draw millions of visitors to the region, contributing to the rise in passenger numbers.

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The financial outlook for the Middle East's aviation market is equally promising, with airlines and aviation companies showing strong recovery following the pandemic's impacts on global travel. Government-backed airlines are being supported by national funds, while private players are also making substantial investments in expanding their fleets. This trend is expected to continue, with private companies playing an increasingly prominent role in the development of the sector.

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