Airlines scour the globe for capacity as plane shortage takes toll

The scarcity has only been exacerbated by supply-chain disruptions that have weighed on output and delayed deliveries, making used aircraft an attractive alternative.

Widebody aircraft, which are more expensive and not as widely flown as their workhorse narrow-body siblings, are seeing a resurgence.

The massive aircraft deals announced this year — from Ryanair's 300-plane Boeing order to Air India’s record 470-plane order in February — are testament to the optimism about a post-pandemic rebound.

But as the surge in travel meets a dearth of available jets, more airlines are scouring the globe for fill-in purchases to sidestep the endless wait lists for new aircraft.