Deferring aircraft orders because of uncertainty and rising jet fuel prices linked to the war in Iran would be unwise for Middle Eastern airlines, according to a senior official of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, told reporters that he does not expect the conflict or increased operating costs to affect aircraft orders placed by carriers in the region.
Middle Eastern airlines remain among the largest customers of aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus.
Al-Awadhi said postponing deliveries was “not wise because that deferral will cost you”, pointing to lengthy waiting periods for new aircraft.
He noted that, given the delivery backlog for Airbus’ latest generation single-aisle aircraft, operators could face delays of several years before receiving their planes.
“The plan is to continue where we’re going, even though this is a hiccup,” Al-Awadhi said.
