Airbus ups demand forecast

Airbus raised its long-term jet demand forecast, saying the world would need to double its fleet as Asia's increasingly affluent middle class takes to the skies. The latest Global Market Forecast on Tuesday said airlines, lessors and cargo operators would need some 29,220 new passenger and freighter jets worth $4.4 trillion over the next 20 years. Its latest forecast includes 28,355 passenger jets valued at $4.1 trillion, up 3.7 percent from its previous estimate a year ago, and 871 freighters, up 1.6 percent. In June, Boeing revised up its own 20-year market demand forecast by 3.8 percent. Both planemakers anticipate a surge in Asian travel. (Sources: multiple, including Airbus, Reuters, 09/24/13) Gulf Coast note: Airbus is building an A320 final assembly line at Brookley Aeroplex in Mobile, Ala. The A320 is the most popular line of Airbus jets. Previous: Boeing ups demand forecast; Airbus ups estimate of aircraft need