Airbus predict 'global air fleet will double by 2032' with two thirds of the population taking at least one flight a year



Airbus has predicted that the world will need to double its aircraft fleet within the next 20 years as the newly-affluent middle classes in Asia take to the skies in increasing numbers.



According to the European aircraft-maker's annual global market forecast, airlines and freight carriers will need 29,220 new jets by 2032 – worth a staggering $4.4trillion (£2.7trillion) at catalogue prices as air traffic grows at 4.7 per cent per year.



This would be great news for Britain's aerospace industry and UK plc. Airbus makes wings for its commercial jets in Broughton, North Wales, while other firms such as engine-maker Rolls-Royce and a host of smaller component manufacturers will all benefit.



Good news? Airbus, the company that manufacture wings for commercial aircrafts, predict the world will need to double its fleet within the next 20 years to cope with increasing demand

By 2032, Airbus reckons two thirds of the population in emerging markets will take at least one flight annually.

