Airbus has announced that the number of cargo aircraft worldwide is expected to rise significantly to 3,420 units by 2045. Over the next 20 years, airlines will require 2,605 new freighters, with part of that number replacing older models and the rest expanding existing fleets.
The main areas of growth will be Asia and North America, which together are projected to account for about two-thirds of total demand. Airbus attributed this to the expansion of manufacturing and logistics hubs across Asia and the strong volume of international trade in North America.
The company forecasts an average 3.3% annual growth in air cargo traffic and highlighted its A350F, A330P2F, and A321P2F models as key drivers of the next generation of freighter aircraft. The report also emphasized the economic and social importance of air cargo in supporting global trade and connectivity.
