SMBC Predicts Shortage of New Aircraft Until At Least 2026.

The CEO of SMBC Aviation Capital the world's second-largest aircraft leasing company, predicts a shortage of new aircraft until at least 2026, citing challenges in aircraft production post-COVID-19 and recent engine issues, particularly with RTX 's 普惠 Geared Turbofan engines. The company, a major aircraft buyer, recently ordered 60 Airbus planes, bringing its fleet to nearly 1,000. The CEO expects the supply challenge to persist into 2026 and possibly beyond, affecting operators in 2024 and early 2025. The constrained supply, coupled with increased travel demand and higher interest rates, has led to a 20%-30% rise in lease rates in the past year. Despite a strong 2023, the CEO anticipates more modest airline travel growth in 2024.