The engine segment is on pace to claim its largest-ever share of aviation aftermarket revenue in 2026, reaching 53% of the projected $139 billion total commercial aftermarket market. That figure is up from 49% in 2025 and 46% in 2024, according to Aviation Week Network's early 2026 MRO outlook.

The shift toward engine dominance reflects the compounding cost of deferred maintenance during the pandemic years, combined with increased shop visit volumes as aging narrowbody fleets accumulate flight cycles faster than anticipated. Engine overhaul backlogs remain elevated across major MRO facilities, contributing to longer aircraft-on-ground times and pushing airlines toward early shop visit scheduling.

Total MRO sales are projected to post low-double-digit percentage growth in 2026, with the overall commercial aftermarket reaching $139 billion. Boeing's 20-year Services Market Outlook projects the cumulative market for support and services at $4.7 trillion between 2025 and 2044, underscoring the long-term scale of the opportunity.

Labor constraints remain the most significant limiting factor for MRO capacity expansion. Boeing's 2025 Pilot and Technician Outlook identifies the need for 710,000 new maintenance technicians globally over the next 20 years. The US market is competing directly with airlines, OEMs, and international MRO operators for the same shrinking pool of certified technicians.

For US MRO operators and aviation maintenance professionals, the data picture is clear: demand is strong, capacity is constrained, and the operators who invest in workforce development and training documentation are best positioned to grow.

Source: Aviation Week Network -- https://aviationweek.com/mro/supply-chain/early-2026-outlook-shows-mro-market-momentum-increasing