Airbus forecasts 15,000 planes in Asia Pacific

France-based aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, has forecast that the fleet in Asia Pacific would increase to over 15,000 from the current 6,000 in the next 20 years.

Speaking at a media briefing today, Airbus Group Asia-Pacific President Pierre Jaffre said demand in the region expanded 5.5 per cent, annually.

Malaysia, Airbus's third largest market in the region after China and India, would be part of the strong growth with rising demand for the aircraft, he said.

"Our business here ranges from civil airliners to helicopters and military transport equipment.

"Malaysia is also our largest industrial partner in Southeast Asia, with the value of Airbus work undertaken in Malaysia set to increase by 25 per cent to over US$500 million by 2021, from US$400 million now," he said.

More than 700 Airbus commercial aircraft have been ordered by Malaysian-based airlines, including the best-selling single aisle A320, popular mid-size A330 and A380.

Malaysia is also the first export customer for the A400M military airlifter, and over 100 Airbus helicopters in service today.

On another note, Jaffre said preparations were underway for the delivery of the first all-new A350 to Malaysia Airlines Bhd end-December.

Meanwhile, Jaffre said the group was set to be one of the largest international exhibitor at LIMA 2017, showcasing its wide-range of products for the civil and defence market, with eight aircraft participating in the static and flying displays.

The highlight of the opening day will be the fly-pasts with a Malaysia Airlines A380 airliner and a Royal Malaysian Air Force A400M military airlifter. - BERNAMA