Climate change and Covid-19 cast shadow over jet demand outlook

Jetmakers see strong demand for airliners even as the industry braces for tough new environmental measures, but some financiers have raised doubts over forecasts that the $150 billion industry will return to pre-COVID growth in just a few years.

Lessors and underwriters of securities that finance aircraft purchases met in London this week to survey COVID damage and contemplate the impact of moves to combat climate change through regulation and new technology.

Some speculated that the industry’s deepest fear could come true: These trends might shorten the operational lifespan – and hurt the valuations – of even the most modern aircraft.