Aviation Week Network's 2026 Commercial Fleet and MRO Forecast projects the global aircraft fleet will grow approximately 37%, reaching about 41,000 aircraft by 2036, generating cumulative MRO demand exceeding $193 billion over the forecast period. Engine maintenance represents the largest single category, with North America accounting for roughly 20% of global engine maintenance demand, valued at approximately $159 billion over 2026 through 2035.
Business aviation presents a separate but parallel growth story. The worldwide business aircraft fleet is projected to grow from 35,730 aircraft in 2026 to 40,504 aircraft in 2035, a 13% increase with a 1.4% compound annual growth rate. Business aviation aftermarket MRO demand is forecast at a 3.1% CAGR with $155 billion in total requirements, 33% of which represents modification work.
For helicopter operators and MRO providers, Aviation Week projects aftermarket demand growing at a 1.5% CAGR on a non-inflationary basis, totaling $92.1 billion in requirements over the forecast horizon. Component MRO accounts for 27% of helicopter maintenance spending. The forecast is available through Aviation Week's Fleet & MRO subscription service and interactive forecast dashboard tools.