Airlines in China are projected to require more than 6,000 new aircraft over the next 20 years, valued at $870 billion.
Chinese carriers will take delivery of nearly 45% of the total demand for aircraft in the Asia Pacific region during the period, according to a market outlook by Boeing.
It shows how the emergence of start-up airlines and low-cost carriers stimulates traffic and allow more people to fly.
Tourism in China and intra-Asia travel supports a strong demand for single-aisle aircraft, with total deliveries reaching 4,340 through 2033.
Chinese airlines with large global networks continue to look for opportunities to expand as international flying increases from secondary cities apart from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.
The long-haul growth is expected to result in demand for an additional 1,480 new fuel-efficient wide body aircraft, such as the 777, 787 Dreamliner and 747-8 Intercontinental, according to the US manufacturer.
Boeing projects investments of $5.2 trillion for 36,770 new commercial aircraft to be delivered worldwide over the next 20 years. China accounts for more than 16% of the total demand in terms of both new deliveries and market value.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes marketing vice president Randy Tinseth said: “China’s aviation market is going through dynamic changes.
“New business models like low-cost carriers and airplane leasing companies, a new generation of fuel-efficient airplanes and evolving consumer needs are driving demand for more direct flights to more destinations.”
The forecast reflects a continued shift in demand from very large aircraft to efficient new small and medium wide body jets.
“To compete in the tough long-haul international market, our Chinese customers are focused on evolving new business models, adding new destinations, increasing their capacity and resources,” said Tinseth.
“These trends will shape market demand for an airplane line-up that has high efficiency, low operating costs, environmentally progressive technologies and a great passenger experience.”
“We believe Boeing’s comprehensive wide body portfolio is perfectly aligned to meet those needs.”