Freighter aircraft demand to rise sharply

The global fleet of freighter aircraft is expected to grow from 2,360 in 2026 to 3,460 by 2045, according to forecasts from Airbus. This would require 2,670 new or converted aircraft during the period, with 1,580 intended to replace aging aircraft and 1,090 to expand the market.

Most freighters will be converted from passenger planes

Nearly two-thirds of the anticipated needs would be met through passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions, with 1,700 conversions expected compared to 970 new freighter aircraft. These conversions involve modifying passenger aircraft for cargo use, including reinforcing the floor, installing a cargo door, and adapting loading systems.

Freighter types vary by capacity

The forecast divides the anticipated needs into three categories: 1,140 single-aisle aircraft, 860 medium-capacity wide-body aircraft, and 670 large-capacity wide-body aircraft. This diversity reflects the varied missions of air freight, from regional express networks to intercontinental routes.

E-commerce and high-tech products drive growth

Airbus cites e-commerce and high-tech products as key drivers of this growth, noting that air transport represents less than 1% of global trade by weight but more than 30% by value. The value of computers and high-tech products transported by air has doubled in three years, now representing 15% of the value of air freight in 2026.

North America and Asia-Pacific lead demand

North America is expected to be the largest market for freighter aircraft, requiring 925 aircraft by 2045, followed by the Asia-Pacific region with 850 aircraft. Together, these two regions would account for about two-thirds of the global demand.

Airbus unveils new freighter model

Airbus also announced the first flight of its A350F cargo aircraft on September 29, 2026, with an expected entry into service in 2027. The A350F has a maximum payload of 111 tons and a range of 4,700 nautical miles. It features a large main deck cargo door and uses lightweight materials such as carbon fiber composites and titanium.

Air freight demand rises despite higher fuel costs

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global air freight demand increased by 4.4% year-on-year in August 2026, despite a 0.1% decrease in capacity. IATA's vice president for sustainability and chief economist, Marie Owens Thomsen, noted the growth in demand, even as jet fuel prices were 79.2% higher than in August 2025.