The first Airbus A350 entered into service in January 2015 with launch customer Qatar Airways.
In-Service A350s
Credit: Cathay Pacific
As of 2018, there are 262 A350s in-service. This figure will increase significantly over the next decade, reaching 1,334 in-service aircraft by 2027. According to Aviation Week data, this marks a 19.8% fleet growth.
A350 MRO Demand
Credit: Airbus
Aftermarket demand for the aircraft is forecast to pick up considerably over the next decade. Aviation Week data estimates it will increase at a compound annual growth rate of 26.3% from this year to 2027.
Line Maintenance Will Be In Demand
Credit: Airbus
Given the young lifespan of the less-maintenance intensive A350, it'll be lighter line services that'll account for the most maintenance spend by segment in its first 10 years. Aviation Week estimates this will stand at 8.3 billion, around 37% of the overall A350 MRO market of $22.6 billion.
A350 By Region
Credit: Airbus
Asia-Pacific will have the most A350s flying by 2027. The region will be home to an estimated 418 aircraft, followed by the Middle East (288) and Western Europe (246).
Asia-Pacific Will Dominate MRO Demand
Credit: Airbus
Naturally, the sheer number of A350s in the region means Asia-Pacific will account for the lion's share of MRO demand. Aviation Week data forecasts it will generate $8 billion over the next 10 years.
As Aviation Week's MRO Editor EMEA, James Pozzi covers the latest industry news from the European region and beyond. He also writes in-depth features on the commercial aftermarket for Inside MRO.