Boeing outsells Airbus in 2025 for first time since 2018

Boeing Sees Resurgence in Aircraft Orders

After a tumultuous period, Boeing has marked a significant milestone, logging 1,173 net orders for airplanes in the last year. This achievement not only showcases the company’s recovery but also positions it ahead of its European rival, Airbus, in terms of orders for the first time since 2018. The resurgence is a welcome sign for Boeing, which has been working to overcome the challenges posed by the grounding of its 737 Max aircraft following two deadly crashes, as well as other production issues.

The company’s delivery numbers have also seen a notable increase, with 600 aircraft handed over to customers in the past year, the highest number in seven years. This includes 63 jetliners delivered in the last month alone, with 44 of those being 737 Max planes. While Airbus still maintains a lead in deliveries, with 793 aircraft handed over compared to Boeing’s 600, the European manufacturer’s output has been impacted by supply chain issues, resulting in a lower delivery total than its record 863 airplanes in 2019.

Supply Chain Challenges and Future Orders

Despite these positive trends, Boeing and the aviation industry as a whole continue to face challenges related to engine and other supply chain issues. These problems have a direct impact on aircraft deliveries, which are crucial for manufacturers as airlines typically pay the majority of a jet’s price upon delivery. Boeing’s ability to navigate these challenges will be key to its continued recovery and success. Recent orders, such as Alaska Airlines’ purchase of over 100 737 Maxes and Delta Air Lines’ order for at least 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, indicate a strong demand for Boeing’s aircraft, with deliveries for some of these orders scheduled as far out as the early 2030s.

As the aviation industry looks to the future, Boeing’s production plans will be closely watched. The company is set to discuss its production strategy in more detail when it reports its quarterly results on January 27. With airlines looking to replace older jets and expand their fleets, the competition between Boeing and Airbus is expected to remain fierce. Boeing’s recent gains in orders and deliveries are positive indicators of its recovery, but the company must continue to address supply chain issues and meet the evolving needs of its customers to maintain its momentum.