BA · News · 20261103N

Commercial Aircraft Demand

BOEING CO · 2026-11-03 · Importance 38 · Surprise 24 · In source text

Boeing’s long-term aviation forecast projects that the Middle East commercial aircraft fleet will more than double to over 3,500 planes by 2045. Boeing expects airlines in the region to take delivery of 2,995 new airplanes over the next two decades, including 1,505 single-aisle jets, 1,370 widebody aircraft and 120 freighters. The forecast attributes demand to expanding passenger traffic, tourism and international trade, with deliveries supporting fleet expansion and replacement of aging aircraft.

Key facts

• Boeing agreed with Icelease to convert one 767-300 passenger aircraft into a freighter, with options for two additional conversions. source
• Icelease ordered one Boeing 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter, with options for two more. source
• The first Boeing 767-300 freighter conversion for Icelease is scheduled to begin in early 2027 and will be performed by ST Engineering in Singapore. source
• The first Boeing 767-300 freighter ordered by Icelease is expected to be delivered in Q2 2027 after conversion by ST Engineering in Singapore. source
• The initial Boeing 767-300 aircraft for the Icelease conversion is due to begin modification work in Singapore during the first quarter of 2027, with delivery targeted for the following quarter. source
• Boeing’s 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter has a 57-metric-ton payload capacity. source

Impact estimates