What Happened
Global Delivery Shortfalls Surpass 5,300 Aircraft Amid Rising Demand
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned of a renewed capacity crunch in global aircraft and engine production, with delivery shortfalls exceeding 5,300 aircraft and a record-high order backlog of over 17,000 planes. The average fleet age has increased to 15.1 years, and more than 5,000 aircraft remain in storage, highlighting the gap between demand and available aircraft. IATA expects limited aircraft availability to cost the airline industry over $11 billion in 2025, despite increasing deliveries. According to IATA’s Director General Willie Walsh, the industry faces significant challenges, including higher leasing costs and reduced scheduling flexibility. This was reported by AeroTime.