According to research commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) – a survey of 35 business aviation financiers and brokers across the Middle East – private aircraft use in the region is expected to increase across the large, midsize and light business jet categories between now and 2030.
Of the respondents, 83% predicted increased flight activity for large business jets, including 37% who anticipate dramatic demand; 80% forecast increased use of light jets; and 78% expected increased use of midsize aircraft.
Amongst private companies’ customers, all respondents saw boosted demand over the past two years – 83% said demand rose by 5-15%, while 17% of respondents reported an increase of more than 15%. In addition, 94% of respondents said geopolitical activity has resulted in more interest from governments and government departments in purchasing or leasing business aircraft.
On technology’s role in supporting this growth, 89% predicted the use of AI in flight planning optimisation, fuel burn reduction and maintenance prediction will grow over the next five years. The research also found that 72% of respondents expected next-generation LEO satellite connectivity to impact business aircraft sales and operations positively.
On sustainability, 83% of respondents expected increased sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage over the next five years, and 92% reported that purchasers are putting more emphasis on fuel efficiency in evaluating aircraft purchases. Meanwhile, 77% said the use of SAF ‘book and claim’ programmes would increase. In addition, 89% believed wider SAF adoption would encourage the purchase of newer, more fuel-efficient business aircraft.
Chadi Saade, president of Airbus Corporate Jets, said: “Business aviation is evolving rapidly in the Middle East. Organisations increasingly value the flexibility, security and productivity that private aircraft provide. At the same time, technology is transforming the sector. Artificial intelligence and predictive maintenance are helping operators improve efficiency, while new connectivity solutions allow passengers to remain fully productive throughout their journey.”
“Sustainability is also becoming a central consideration,” Saade continued. “The growing use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel and increasing demand for fuel-efficient aircraft demonstrate that environmental and operational performance are now closely linked. Together these trends point towards a business aviation market that is not only growing, but becoming smarter, more connected and more sustainable.”
