Alican Yarıcı
Dec 7, 2025
The global aviation industry is preparing for one of its largest multi-year expansion cycles, with airlines accelerating aircraft deliveries, upgrading cabins, and modernizing their long-haul fleets.
Here are the standout fleet developments heading into 2026:
1. Airbus Sees Strong A320neo & A350 Deliveries
Airbus recorded over 650 aircraft delivered in 2025, led by strong demand for the A320neo family and expanded A350 orders.Airlines in the Middle East and Europe continue to dominate these deliveries.
2. Boeing Ramps Up 737 MAX & 787 Production
Boeing has passed 490 aircraft delivered this year, including passenger and cargo models.The 787 Dreamliner remains popular among airlines modernizing their long-haul fleets.
3. Etihad Grows Its Wide-Body Fleet
Etihad Airways confirmed new orders for:
A330-900
A350-1000
A350 Freighter
This supports both passenger growth and cargo expansion.
4. Tigerair Taiwan Orders A321neo Aircraft
A major move in East Asia — Tigerair plans to add 15 Airbus A321neo jets to expand its regional footprint into 2026.
5. Qantas Returns the A380 to Service
After years in storage, Qantas successfully reintroduced its final A380 into long-haul service, supporting strong Australian outbound demand.
6. Freighter Boom Continues
AerCap Cargo delivered the first converted 777-300ERSF “Big Twin”, offering airlines improved cargo efficiency and capacity.
What This Means for Pilots & Crew
More aircraft = more crew demand
New fleets → faster hiring cycles
Increased long-haul flights → more opportunities for wide-body positions
Growing regional fleets → more cadet/FO pathway opportunities
Final Word
The aviation industry is entering a strong expansion period. With airlines updating fleets at record pace, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best years for job growth and pilot/cabin-crew recruitment worldwide.