Airbus on Thursday (January 11) reported its highest-ever annual orders for jets and confirmed an 11% increase in deliveries, securing its position as the leading aircraft manufacturer over Boeing for the fifth consecutive year.
The company reported an impressive 2,319 gross orders and 2,094 net orders after accounting for cancellations, reflecting the strong demand from airlines looking to renew their fleets in 2023.
Airbus CEO on noteworthy achievement
Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury highlighted the company’s ability to adapt to challenges, mentioning the “increased flexibility and capability” observed in its industrial system. Analysts had noted a slower start to the year as Airbus navigated through tight supply chains, but the strong finish showcases the company’s resilience.
Christian Scherer, who transitioned from the top sales position to CEO of commercial aircraft in January, expressed optimism about the aviation industry’s faster-than-expected recovery from the pandemic. “Travel is back and there is serious momentum,” Scherer said in a statement.
Boeing fighting 737 MAX grounding challenges
In contrast, Boeing, still recovering from the 737 MAX safety grounding and subsequent production challenges, reported delivering 528 aircraft in 2023 and securing 1,314 net new orders after accounting for cancellations.
The challenges for Boeing are compounded by fresh scrutiny over production following a cabin blowout that led to a partial new grounding of a specific type of 737 MAX.
Why does Boeing seem unable to keep up with Airbus?
Analysts noted that these developments occur amid ongoing supply tensions across the aviation industry. Airbus’s success announcement came after the stock market closed, with the company scheduled to provide a detailed briefing on its commercial and industrial performance later on Thursday.
Airbus’s impressive performance reaffirms its position as a key player in the competitive aerospace market, demonstrating resilience and adaptability in the face of industry challenges.