Airbus’ aircraft deliveries reach new heights

Opinion Pieces

20

Jan

2025

Airbus’ aircraft deliveries reach new heights

According to Airbus and Boeing’s recently released 2024 delivery totals, Airbus delivered more than double Boeing’s volumes.

Airbus announced that it delivered 766 aircrafts in 2024, just 4 aircrafts shy of its goal of 770, which was revised downward from an initial 800 aircrafts following reports of supply chain disruptions in the aerospace industry, specifically related to engine deliveries. Despite these issues, Airbus delivered 32 more aircrafts in 2024 than the previous year.

In contrast, Boeing delivered only 348 aircrafts, representing 180 aircrafts less than the company’s 2023 deliveries. Boeing encountered many obstacles in 2024, starting with a door plug incident in January that saw the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) launch a safety investigation into the company’s safety standards and culture, which resulted in the capping of 737 Max production volumes. These obstacles were also exacerbated by a machinist strike lasting from 12 September to 4 November 2024, further impacting delivery volumes and timelines.

Total 2024 deliveries for the duopoly fell below those observed in 2023, mostly seen in the narrow body segment. Aircraft deliveries are expected to marginally increase into 2025 as safety issues and supply chain disruptions continue. Boeing is expected to see a slower recovery in 2025 as it is still recouping from the impact of the machinist trike, ongoing layoffs and restructuring, and the persisting FAA safety investigation.

Moreover, after the certification of the Airbus A321 XLR and both engine configurations by the FAA in 2024, it is anticipated that this model will see increased interest from airlines aiming to diversify their route expansion strategies. Given the above-mentioned factors, Airbus is set to maintain its lead over Boeing while COMAC continues to strengthen its position in the Asian market.


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