Airlines face a decade-long aircraft supply shortage, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Over the past years, delivery delays and record order backlogs have forced the industry into a tight supply situation.
Consequently, IATA predicts that normal supply levels may return only by 2031–2034.
Aircraft Shortages Loom
Aircraft manufacturers began increasing deliveries in late 2025, and they plan to accelerate production further in 2026.
However, demand will likely outpace supply for most of the next decade.
The industry struggles with a structural mismatch between airline requirements and manufacturing capacity, which past delivery losses have worsened.
Fleet Age And Operational Strain
Currently, airlines have placed orders for more than 17,000 aircraft, equalling almost 12 years of production, far above historical norms.
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As a result, delivery shortfalls now affect at least 5,300 planes, forcing airlines to operate older aircraft longer.
Average fleet age has risen to 15.1 years, with cargo planes approaching 20 years.
Meanwhile, manufacturers and airlines continue to store over 5,000 planes, revealing ongoing inefficiencies in the supply chain.
These pressures increase leasing and maintenance costs, reduce scheduling flexibility, and slow progress on sustainability targets.
Consequently, passengers face higher ticket prices in many markets.
Solutions And Recovery
Engine shortages, prolonged certification timelines, trade tensions, and skilled labour shortages continue to slow production.
Manufacturers now need up to five years to certify some aircraft.
To address these challenges, IATA urges airlines and suppliers to open the aftermarket, expand repair and parts capacity, and adopt predictive maintenance tools.
In doing so, they can reduce downtime, improve fleet availability, and mitigate the long-term impact on aviation economics, fleet age, and travel experiences.
