The IATA report highlights ongoing and severe supply chain issues that are expected to continue impacting airlines’ performance through 2025, with record backlogs of 17,000 aircraft.
The average age of the global fleet has increased significantly, resulting in higher maintenance costs and reduced fuel efficiency, further complicating airline operations.
Aircraft delivery forecasts have been significantly curtailed, with a substantial shortfall reported compared to earlier predictions, leading to route adjustments by carriers like Virgin Atlantic and British Airways.
Willie Walsh from IATA emphasized the need for manufacturers to resolve supply chain challenges to support airlines’ goals for improved environmental performance and financial recovery post-pandemic.
