Boeing's 2026 World Air Cargo Forecast outlines a significant increase in the global freighter fleet, projecting that it will grow to more than 4,000 airplanes by 2045. The forecast highlights that air cargo traffic will double over the next two decades, fueled by the rise in e-commerce and the need for time-sensitive shipments of advanced manufacturing and AI hardware.

This growth is expected to reshape trade flows and supply chains globally.

The report also notes that air cargo networks are becoming more resilient, adapting to shifting trade patterns and geopolitical challenges. Over the next 20 years, airlines will need to add 2,930 new and converted freighters to meet demand and replace older aircraft.

Nearly two-thirds of these will be converted passenger planes, with the rest being new-production freighters.