Boeing Projects Mexico Will Need 800 New Aircraft Over the Next 20 Years
Air travel demand in Mexico continues to rise, and projections indicate that the country will require approximately 800 new aircraft over the next two decades. This growth is driven by increasing domestic, regional, and international traffic.
The majority of this demand will focus on single-aisle and wide-body aircraft, particularly the 737 and 787 models, which serve both short- and long-haul routes. However, delivery timelines for new orders have lengthened significantly. A newly placed order may now take up to seven years to fulfill, compared to the pre-pandemic average of three to four years.
Production Challenges and Operational Adjustments
The company has faced significant operational challenges in recent years. Following a series of incidents that raised concerns about its quality control processes, the organization underwent a structural overhaul and reinforced its internal procedures.
A notable event was the detachment of a component on a 737 MAX 9, which led to the temporary grounding of that aircraft model. In response, the company implemented a comprehensive review of its manufacturing operations and introduced new performance indicators covering supply chain health, workforce training, and production standards.
Current monthly production rates are as follows:
- 737: 38 units, with a target of reaching 42 by year-end
- 787: Increased from 5 to 7 units, aiming for 10 within two years
- 777: Currently at 4 units, while transitioning to the 777X model
Mexico: A Strategic Link in the Supply Chain
Beyond being a major customer, Mexico plays a strategic role in the company’s global supply chain. Local suppliers generate over $1 billion annually in contracts, and their participation is expected to grow—provided they meet higher quality and certification standards.
Aeroméxico remains the largest domestic client, with active aircraft orders, though other airlines are also expanding their fleets. To help customers manage extended delivery times, the company has proposed alternative solutions such as aircraft leasing, purchasing used planes, or converting existing passenger aircraft for cargo use.
One area of particular growth is the conversion of 737 aircraft for freight operations, where Mexico is seen as a key emerging market.
Outlook and Risks
While the forecast of 800 aircraft reflects strong market confidence, the outlook is not without its challenges:
- Global production capacity remains limited amid rising demand
- Restoring stakeholder trust following past technical issues is critical
- Competitors are increasingly active in Latin America
- Mexican suppliers must continue to improve technical and operational capabilities
Mexico’s aviation sector is poised to become a regional growth driver, but success will depend on its ability to meet demand with consistent quality, safety, and efficiency.
