Boeing Forecasts Global Freighter Fleet Will Reach 4,010 Aircraft by 2045

Boeing’s 2026 World Air Cargo Forecast projects global air cargo traffic will double by 2045, with annual growth averaging 3.5% over the next two decades. The company expects the worldwide freighter fleet to expand from 2,395 aircraft in 2025 to 4,010 in 2045.

Key details

• Boeing estimates operators will need 2,930 new and converted freighters over the period, with about 55% supporting fleet growth and 45% replacing older aircraft.
• About two-thirds of forecast freighter deliveries will come from passenger-aircraft conversions; the rest will be new-production freighters.
• Boeing expects trade flows involving Asia to represent about 60% of the global air cargo market.
• Express and time-definite operators are forecast to account for nearly 25% of global air cargo traffic in 2045.

Boeing forecasts the global freighter fleet will grow from 2,395 aircraft in 2025 to 4,010 in 2045.

Why it matters

Boeing’s projection points to demand for both converted passenger aircraft and purpose-built freighters as cargo operators plan capacity and fleet replacement. The forecast also highlights Asia-linked trade flows as a major part of the market’s expected growth.

What happens next

Boeing’s forecast sets out a two-decade outlook for cargo growth and fleet expansion. Which developments in freighter conversions or new-build aircraft will shape the next stage of air cargo?