Passenger air traffic in India and South Asia is expected to grow by an average of 7% each year over the next two decades, driven by a rising middle class, strong economic development, and major investments in airports and connectivity, Boeing has announced. This sustained demand will require airlines in the region to add nearly 3,300 new aircraft by 2044, according to Boeing’s latest Commercial Market Outlook for South Asia.
Single-aisle aircraft are forecast to dominate future deliveries, accounting for almost 90% of the total, as carriers seek greater flexibility on rapidly expanding short- and medium-haul routes. These jets will be essential for meeting increasing domestic and regional travel needs.
The overall fleet across India and South Asia is projected to expand dramatically, rising from 795 aircraft today to 2,925 within 20 years — almost a four-fold increase. Domestic air travel within India will form the backbone of this growth, supported by a continuing shift from rail transport to flying, alongside ongoing upgrades to airport infrastructure.
Ashwin Naidu, Boeing Managing Director of Commercial Marketing for Eurasia and the Indian Subcontinent, said air travel is becoming central to how people and goods move across the region. He noted that airlines will need to strengthen route networks, scale up fleets and invest in services and technical personnel to sustain long-term expansion. More efficient and versatile aircraft will open up significant growth opportunities for both established and emerging carriers.
Beyond domestic expansion, airlines are also expected to broaden their long-haul operations as India develops into a key international hub for passenger and cargo traffic. Boeing forecasts that the region’s wide-body fleet will more than triple by 2044, enabling millions of travellers to access global markets such as the Middle East, Europe and North America.
Cargo demand is also set to rise sharply, fuelled by India’s growing high-tech manufacturing sector and the expanding influence of e-commerce. The region’s freighter fleet, including new and converted aircraft, is expected to increase five-fold over the next two decades.
To support this rapid aviation growth, Boeing estimates the region will require more than US$195 billion in aviation services, covering maintenance, repairs, digital solutions and training. The industry will also need around 141,000 new professionals, including approximately 45,000 pilots, 45,000 technicians and 51,000 cabin crew, by 2044.
