Aircraft Supply Chain Issues May Last Until 2026, IATA Says

Supply chain problems that have delayed the global delivery of new aircraft could last until 2026, according to Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). During the IATA's annual meeting in Dubai last week, Walsh commented, “Our assessment is that it’s not getting worse but it’s not getting better either. I see these problems continuing certainly through this year, 2025, and probably into 2026.”

Airline executives are frustrated with the delays in receiving new jets, which is affecting their growth plans. Both Boeing and Airbus have been severely impacted by supply chain disruptions. These disruptions, initially triggered by COVID-19, have resulted in wait times for new jets stretching into “several months and, in some cases, years,” according to Walsh.

Despite the disruptions, Walsh emphasized that the aviation industry's focus on sustainability remains unwavering. The primary concern in this area is the inadequate supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Walsh cited France as an example where regulatory approaches are failing; penalties for insufficient SAF supply are being passed from fuel suppliers to airlines, leading to no environmental benefits and adverse economic impacts.

The IATA meeting, set to run until June 4, comes at a critical time for the aviation industry as it navigates these supply chain challenges while maintaining its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Walsh underscored that despite the logistical hurdles, sustainability efforts, particularly around SAF, are still a priority. “There is still very much a focus on sustainability,” he noted.

The comments from Walsh highlight the challenges faced by the aviation industry in balancing immediate operational challenges with long-term sustainability goals. 

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