Global Scans · Aviation · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: More than half of the expected new passengers over the next two decades will originate from China, which will displace the US as the world's largest aviation market by around 2029. More than half of the expected new passengers over the next two decades will originate from China, which will displace the US as the world's largest aviation market by around 2029. Sales of consumer and prosumer drones are soaring and the Federal Aviation Authority forecasts there will be more than 1.3 million licensed drone pilots by 2020 in the U.S. alone.

• [New] The Department of War's required annual report on the People's Liberation Army describes Beijing's recent military expansion as historic, noting plans to field six additional aircraft carriers by 2035, bringing its total to nine - just behind the U.S. fleet of 11. National Guard Association of the United States
• [New] While the threat of an immediate intervention from the US against Iran has subsided, the US is moving an aircraft carrier strike group into the Middle East, and other military assets are expected to be shifted there in the coming days and weeks. Barchart.com
• [New] French military pilots could soon fly deeper into low-visibility missions with Thales' new TopOwl DD helmet, which brings a digital display directly into combat operations. The Defense Post
• [New] A first number of Airbus A320 aircraft will soon receive the necessary adjustments to offer Wi-Fi on-board. Brussels Airlines
• [New] NURTURE will conduct flights using a NASA G-3 aircraft stationed in Goose Bay, Canada, from late January through mid February. Scripps Institution of Oceanography
• [New] The new DHS Program Executive Office for Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems will oversee strategic investments in drone and counter-drone technologies that can outpace evolving threats and tactics. U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• [New] In 2026, Airbus and Boeing will deliver 1,044 and 708 aircraft, respectively, rising to 1,188 and 870 in 2027. Aircraft Value News
• [New] The Toyota-backed air taxi startup is seeking to double production by 2027 and secure U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in 2026. The Peak
• [New] Intercepting hundreds of increasingly capable Chinese combat aircraft will require large quantities of advanced air-to-air missiles. Forbes
• [New] Archer Aviation plans to launch a network of air taxis in Southern California in time for the FIFA World Cup matches in Los Angeles in 2026. Smart Cities Dive
• [New] Global aviation emissions could be reduced by 50-75% through combining three strategies to boost efficiency: flying only the most fuel-efficient aircraft, switching to all-economy layouts, and increasing passenger loads. EurekAlert!
• [New] To meet the RefuelEU Aviation and FuelEU Maritime targets, around 20 million tonnes of sustainable fuels (biofuels and e-fuels) will be needed by 2035. Mirage News
• [New] The incremental cost of airline purchases of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is expected to reach $4.5 billion in 2026, with the expectation of 2.4 million tonnes of SAF being available (0.8% of total fuel consumption). TravelMole

Last updated: 18 January 2026