Forecast predicts large aircraft required for Middle East fleets
Middle East carriers will account for a larger share of the global airline fleet as they expand, with an emphasis on increased numbers of large and long-ra

Middle East carriers will account for a larger share of the global airline fleet as they expand, with an emphasis on increased numbers of large and long-range aircraft, according to Boeing’s latest market forecast. “More than 100 new airplanes, including 45 twin-aisle [designs], will be delivered to the region [this year]–approximately 20 percent of 2009 twin-aisle deliveries worldwide,” reads the U.S. airframer’s analysis. Another 50 such aircraft are predicted to join the Middle East fleet next year.

Rival manufacturer Airbus took 230 commercial jet orders in that part of the world last year, and by year-end might double the 27 “firm commitments” it has received up to the third quarter. Letters of intent cover perhaps another 10 or 12 aircraft, with Airbus Middle East president Habib Fakih saying the manufacturer expects to reach “hopefully above 50.”