IATA Supply Chain Priorities: Visibility, AM Access, AI & Human Capital

Research evidence excerpt

IATA Supply Chain Priorities: Visibility, AM Access, AI & Human Capital

USA | Aerospace & Defense Electronics EquityJuneResearch24, 2026

Exhibit 1 - The # of GTF-Powered AircraftIATA Supply Chain Priorities: Visibility, AM

Stored Reached an All-Time High in Mar 25, at

648 Aircraft (28% of the fleet)Access, AI & Human Capital

IATA identified four priorities to strengthen the aviation supply chain: supply

chain visibility, aftermarket access, data & AI integration, and building human

capacity. The callout follows delivery delays impact to fleet age (15.2 avg years)

and increasing backlogs (18k+), while also addressing engine durability/time- .

on-wing issues, spare parts shortages, and constrained MRO capacity. IATA Source: IATA and Cirium

estimates supply chain shortfalls cost airlines >$11BB in 2025.

Supply Chain Visibility - Avg Fleet Age Peaking at 15.2 Years. The first priority IATA outlined

is improving supply chain visibility on delivery delays, repair TATs and parts, allowing for better

planning from airlines. Supply chain constraints and delayed deliveries have culminated in a current

backlog of over 18,000 aircraft, including a shortage of over 5,000 fuel efficient aircraft. The current

fleet age is at its highest level to date, averaging 15.2 years. IATA also highlighted human capacity

as a priority, pointing to maintenance technician recruitment, training, and licensing to shorten

timelines, as well as broadening access, and improving job stability. Boeing estimates 710,000

new technicians needed over the next 20 years. Expanding training capacity, easing unnecessary

qualification barriers, and improving cross-border recognition of skills would help address the gap,

working alongside an improving aerospace supply chain.

Supply Chain Impact on Airlines.