According to Boeing market forecast, over the next 20 years, Russian and CIS airlines are projected to need 1,150 aircraft, valued at $140 billion. Despite current economic difficulties faced by Russia and CIS Region, Boeing projects sustained growth of the aviation market in the region. Marty Bentrott told Aviation EXplorer that over 900 aircraft out of 1150 are accounted for Russia. 

“As the economic situation improves, we expect a return to increased international travel and a requirement in the region for more aircraft, Marty Bentrott, Vice President – Sales, Middle East, Russia & Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said. – Passenger traffic in the region is expected to grow at an annual rate of 3,7%”. 

Over the last ten years the overall capacity of Russian and CIS air carriers increased at an annual rate of 9%. According to the Federal Air Transport Agency, the passenger traffic of the Russia’s five largest carriers exceeded 93 million passengers in 2014 (+10,2% compared to 2013).

The economic crisis in Russia has affected international traffic, with CIS and foreign carriers experiencing a notable reduction in international demand. Russian carriers are, however, seeing increased domestic demand, lessening the net impact of the economic challenges. Domestic Russian and intra-CIS traffic is expected to grow at an annual rate of 3.3%, with expansion of low-cost carrier service over the near term driving up demand for single-aisle aircraft.

CIS airlines will need 760 single-aisle and 200 wide-body aircraft to handle the increased traffic. New liners will help the region’s airlines grow their domestic routes while regaining and increasing their international footprint.

Although the region’s fleet continues to grow, 53% of new aircarft deliveries will replace older airliners. And because they are more efficient, new jets, such as the 737 MAX and the 787 Dreamliner, will improve fleet efficiency.