Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Airbus Projects 820 Aircraft Deliveries in 2025, Signaling Growth
The Significance of Airbus’s Delivery Forecast for 2025
Airbus, a global leader in the aviation industry, has announced its forecast to deliver 820 commercial aircraft in 2025. This projection marks a significant increase from the 766 aircraft delivered in 2024, reflecting the company’s resilience and strategic planning in a challenging market. The aviation industry is a critical driver of global connectivity and economic growth, and Airbus’s performance is a key indicator of the sector’s health.
The increase in deliveries is not just a number; it represents the culmination of years of innovation, supply chain management, and strategic investments. Airbus’s ability to ramp up production amidst global supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainties underscores its leadership in the industry. This forecast also highlights the growing demand for air travel as the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, with airlines seeking to modernize their fleets to meet passenger expectations and environmental regulations.
Airbus’s Financial and Operational Performance
In 2024, Airbus’s commercial aircraft division generated €50.6 billion in revenue, a 6% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by the delivery of 57 A350s, 32 A330s, 602 A320neo-family jets, and 75 A220s. The company’s adjusted earnings for the commercial aircraft activity reached €5.09 billion, a 5.7% rise. These figures demonstrate Airbus’s ability to balance production increases with financial discipline.
Airbus’s backlog of orders stands at 8,658 aircraft, reflecting strong demand for its products. The company’s book-to-bill ratio, which measures the ratio of orders to deliveries, remains above unity, indicating sustained customer confidence. CEO Guillaume Faury emphasized that despite a “testing year,” Airbus’s performance aligned with its guidance, and the company is proposing an increased dividend, signaling financial health and shareholder confidence.
Looking ahead, Airbus’s outlook for 2025 assumes no additional disruptions to global trade or the supply chain. However, the company is mindful of potential challenges, such as new tariffs under the new US presidential administration. Airbus’s ability to navigate these uncertainties will be critical to achieving its delivery targets.
“We achieved strong order intake across all businesses in 2024, with a book-to-bill well above [unity], confirming the solid demand for our products and services,” says Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Aviation Industry
Airbus faces several challenges as it aims to increase production and deliveries. Supply chain constraints, particularly with Spirit AeroSystems, have delayed the ramp-up of A350 production. The company has also pushed back the entry-into-service date of its A350 freighter to the second half of 2027, citing specific supply chain challenges. These issues highlight the complexities of scaling production in a highly interconnected global supply chain.
Despite these challenges, Airbus is well-positioned to capitalize on opportunities in the aviation market. The company’s focus on sustainability and innovation, such as its investments in hydrogen-powered aircraft and electric propulsion systems, aligns with the industry’s shift towards greener aviation. Airbus’s ability to integrate these technologies into its production lines will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge.
Moreover, Airbus’s strong backlog and diversified product portfolio provide a buffer against market volatility. The company’s A320neo-family jets, in particular, are in high demand due to their fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. As airlines prioritize fleet modernization, Airbus is likely to see sustained demand for its narrowbody aircraft.
Conclusion
Airbus’s forecast of 820 commercial aircraft deliveries in 2025 is a testament to its resilience and strategic planning in a challenging market. The company’s ability to increase production amidst global supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainties underscores its leadership in the aviation industry. Airbus’s financial performance, strong backlog, and focus on sustainability position it well for future growth.
Looking ahead, Airbus’s ability to navigate challenges such as supply chain constraints and potential tariffs will be critical to achieving its delivery targets. The company’s investments in innovation and sustainability will also play a key role in shaping the future of aviation. As the industry continues to recover from the pandemic, Airbus’s performance will be a key indicator of the sector’s health and growth potential.
FAQ
Question: How many aircraft did Airbus deliver in 2024?
Answer: Airbus delivered 766 aircraft in 2024, including 57 A350s, 32 A330s, 602 A320neo-family jets, and 75 A220s.
Question: What is Airbus’s delivery forecast for 2025?
Answer: Airbus is forecasting the delivery of 820 commercial aircraft in 2025, an increase from the 766 delivered in 2024.
Question: What challenges does Airbus
Airbus Forecasts 820 Commercial Aircraft Deliveries in 2025
Airbus, one of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers, has announced its forecast for 2025, predicting the delivery of 820 commercial aircraft. This marks a significant increase from the 766 aircraft delivered in 2024, reflecting the company’s resilience and adaptability in a challenging global aviation market. The announcement, made alongside the release of Airbus’s full-year financial results on February 20, 2025, underscores the company’s commitment to meeting growing demand for air travel and maintaining its competitive edge.
The aviation industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and fluctuating demand. Despite these hurdles, Airbus has managed to strengthen its position, leveraging its robust backlog and strategic investments to drive growth. The forecasted increase in deliveries not only highlights Airbus’s operational efficiency but also signals a positive outlook for the broader aviation sector as it continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Historical Context and Financial Performance
Airbus’s delivery forecast for 2025 builds on a strong performance in 2024, during which the company handed over 766 aircraft, including 57 A350s, 32 A330s, 602 A320neo-family jets, and 75 A220s. This increase in deliveries contributed to a 6% rise in revenues for the commercial aircraft division, reaching €50.6 billion. Adjusted earnings for the division also grew by 5.7% to €5.09 billion, reflecting the company’s ability to balance increased production with strategic investments in future capabilities.
Looking back, Airbus’s delivery numbers have shown a steady upward trend, with 735 aircraft delivered in 2023 and an all-time high of 863 in 2019. While the company fell short of its 2024 target of 800 deliveries, the 766 aircraft handed over still represent a significant achievement, particularly in light of ongoing supply chain challenges and global economic uncertainties. Airbus’s ability to navigate these complexities underscores its leadership in the aviation industry.
“We achieved strong order intake across all businesses in 2024, with a book-to-bill well above unity, confirming the solid demand for our products and services,” said Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury.
Production Rates and Market Share
Airbus’s production strategy is a key driver of its success. The company aims to increase the production rate of its A320neo family to 75 aircraft per month by 2027, a target that has been adjusted from the original 2026 timeline due to supplier constraints. Similarly, the A220 program is ramping up, with a current production rate of eight aircraft per month and a target of 14 per month by 2026. The A350 program is also on track, with a production rate of nine aircraft per month, expected to rise to 10 by 2026 and 12 by 2028.
In terms of market share, Airbus is projected to dominate the global aircraft delivery market over the next decade. Forecasts indicate that Airbus will deliver over 11,200 new aircraft between 2025 and 2034, accounting for 51% of total global deliveries. In contrast, Boeing is expected to deliver around 8,800 aircraft, representing a 40% share. This strong backlog advantage positions Airbus to maintain its leadership in the industry for the foreseeable future.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite its strong performance, Airbus faces several challenges. Supply chain disruptions, particularly with key suppliers like Spirit AeroSystems, have impacted production timelines. Additionally, the potential imposition of new tariffs under the new US presidential administration could further complicate the company’s operations. Airbus has acknowledged these risks in its outlook, assuming “no additional disruption” to global trade or the supply chain while excluding the impact of potential tariffs.
Looking ahead, Airbus’s forecast for 2025 reflects a broader recovery in the aviation industry. The company’s focus on increasing production rates, expanding its product portfolio, and addressing supply chain challenges positions it well to capitalize on growing demand for air travel. As the industry continues to evolve, Airbus’s investments in innovation and sustainability will play a critical role in shaping the future of aviation.
Conclusion
Airbus’s forecast of 820 commercial aircraft deliveries in 2025 highlights the company’s resilience and strategic foresight in navigating a complex and dynamic industry. By increasing production rates, addressing supply chain challenges, and maintaining a strong backlog, Airbus is well-positioned to meet growing demand and strengthen its market leadership. The company’s financial performance and operational achievements underscore its ability to adapt to changing market conditions and deliver value to stakeholders.
As the aviation industry continues to recover and evolve, Airbus’s commitment to innovation and sustainability will be critical in shaping its future trajectory. With a focus on expanding its product portfolio and addressing key challenges, Airbus is poised to play a pivotal role in driving the next phase of growth in global aviation.
FAQ
Question: How many aircraft did Airbus deliver in 2024?
Answer: Airbus delivered 766 aircraft in 2024, including 57 A350s, 32 A330s, 602 A320neo-family jets, and 75 A220s.
Question: What is Airbus’s production target for the A320neo by 2027?
Answer: Airbus aims to increase the production rate of the A320neo to 75 aircraft per month by 2027.
Question: How does Airbus’s market share compare to Boeing’s?
Answer: Airbus is projected to deliver 51% of global aircraft between 2025 and 2034, while Boeing is expected to deliver 40%.
Sources: Flight Global
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
AerCap Delivers First GE-Powered Boeing 787-9 to Thai Airways
AerCap delivered the first new GE Aerospace-powered Boeing 787-9 to Thai Airways on June 23, 2026, under a 17-aircraft lease agreement.
AerCap Holdings N.V. delivered the first new GE Aerospace-powered Boeing 787-9 to Thai Airways International Public Company Limited (THAI) on June 23, 2026, at the Boeing Delivery Center in Everett, Washington. The Delivery marks the initial phase of a broader 17-aircraft lease agreement signed in early 2024 to support the carrier’s post-pandemic fleet modernization.
In a press release issued Tuesday, AerCap confirmed the handover of the widebody aircraft. The delivery is intended to enhance operational efficiency and expand network capabilities for the Bangkok-based Airlines, which currently operates in 29 countries across 62 destinations.
Fleet renewal and lease agreements
The newly delivered Boeing 787-9 is part of a comprehensive lease package finalized between AerCap and Thai Airways in February 2024. That agreement encompassed 17 aircraft in total, including three Boeing 787-9s, four Airbus A350-900s, and ten Airbus A321neos.
AerCap Chief Commercial Officer Peter Anderson noted the decades-long relationship between the lessor and the airline.
“We are pleased to deliver THAI their first new GE-powered, factory-fitted Boeing 787-9,” Anderson said. “This aircraft will support THAI’s ongoing fleet renewal program, enhancing efficiency and sustainability across its operations.”
Thai Airways Chief Executive Officer Chai Eamsiri emphasized the operational benefits of the new equipment. Eamsiri stated that the aircraft’s efficiency and range will allow the carrier to grow its network while providing a modern passenger experience.
Bridging the widebody capacity gap
The induction of leased 787-9s from AerCap fits into a wider widebody acquisition strategy for Thai Airways. In January 2026, the airline confirmed negotiations to lease 10 Boeing 787-8 aircraft from Avolon. Those airframes, formerly operated by China Southern Airlines, are intended to bridge a capacity shortfall until Thai Airways begins receiving direct Boeing 787 deliveries scheduled for 2028.
AerCap, which serves approximately 300 customers globally, continues to position itself as a primary provider of next-generation widebody lift for legacy carriers executing post-pandemic network restorations.
AirPro News analysis
We view Thai Airways’ multi-lessor approach to widebody Acquisitions as a pragmatic response to ongoing global supply chain constraints and delayed original equipment manufacturer (OEMs) delivery schedules. By securing both new-build 787-9s from AerCap and mid-life 787-8s from Avolon, the carrier is effectively insulating its near-term network expansion plans from further manufacturing delays at Boeing. The selection of GE Aerospace engines for the new 787-9s also indicates a strategic alignment in powerplant maintenance and operational planning as the airline standardizes its future long-haul fleet.
Sources: AerCap Holdings N.V.
Photo Credit: AerCap Holdings N.V.
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Ethiopian Airlines Receives First Twin Otter Classic 300-G
De Havilland Canada delivered the first DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G to Ethiopian Airlines on June 18, 2026.
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited delivered the first of two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft to Airlines (ET) on June 18, 2026, initiating a fleet expansion aimed at connecting remote and underserved regions across East Africa.
The delivery, announced in a press release by the Manufacturers, follows a purchase agreement signed during the Paris Air Show on June 17, 2025. The new aircraft will allow the carrier to access airstrips unsuitable for larger regional aircraft, supporting tourism, economic development, and essential air services.
Expanding domestic connectivity
Ethiopian Airlines currently serves 22 domestic destinations using its fleet of De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 aircraft. According to reporting by Aviation Week, the introduction of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G will enable the airline to increase its domestic network to 26 destinations.
The short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities of the Twin Otter allow it to operate in challenging environments and on unpaved runways. The airline plans to deploy the newly delivered aircraft, registered as C-FHYC, to new airports including Debre Markos, Negele Boran, and Gore.
“The Delivery of our first Twin Otter Classic 300-G is an important milestone in our regional growth strategy. This aircraft will enable us to better serve remote areas while supporting tourism, economic development, and essential air services throughout the region,” stated Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines.
Aircraft specifications and delivery timeline
The Classic 300-G is the latest iteration of the DHC-6 Twin Otter platform. De Havilland Canada designed the updated model with a lighter airframe to increase payload capacity and improve fuel efficiency. The flight deck features a modern Garmin G1000 integrated Avionics suite, while the cabin includes new lightweight seats and enhanced electrical systems.
The aircraft can be configured for multiple mission profiles, including passenger transport, Cargo-Aircraft operations, humanitarian aid, and medical evacuation. The second Twin Otter Classic 300-G ordered by Ethiopian Airlines is scheduled for delivery in late 2026.
“The Twin Otter’s proven reliability, versatility, and ability to operate in challenging environments make it well suited to the diverse missions Ethiopian Airlines will undertake across the region,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for De Havilland Canada.
AirPro News analysis
We view Ethiopian Airlines’ acquisition of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G as a pragmatic approach to regional connectivity in East Africa. While the Dash 8-400 serves as the backbone of the carrier’s domestic operations, its runway requirements limit access to smaller, unpaved, or geographically constrained airstrips. By integrating the DHC-6 Twin Otter, Ethiopian Airlines bridges the gap between major regional hubs and remote communities. This fleet diversification aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to stimulate local economic development and tourism by ensuring reliable air links to areas previously inaccessible by Commercial-Aircraft transport.
Photo Credit: De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Air Montenegro Buys Embraer E195 for $11 Million
Air Montenegro finalizes $11M purchase of an Embraer E195, expanding its owned fleet to three aircraft.
Air Montenegro has finalized the $11 million purchase of an Embraer E195, transitioning the 118-seat Commercial-Aircraft from a dry lease arrangement to full ownership. The transaction secures the airframe for the national carrier and eliminates future lease payments for the asset.
In a company statement published in mid-June 2026, Air Montenegro announced that the Acquisitions brings its fully owned fleet to three aircraft. The airframe, registered as 4O-AOE, initially entered service with the airline on July 4, 2025, operating under a dry lease agreement before the carrier opted to purchase it outright.
Financial structure and government approval
According to reporting by Montenegrin news outlet Vijesti, the Airlines negotiated an $11 million purchase price for the aircraft. Air Montenegro Director Vuk Stojanović told the publication that the carrier secured additional financial benefits during the negotiation process. The airline received an exemption from lease payments for April and May 2026, which reduced the total arrangement value by more than $300,000.
Stojanović noted that the airline has been highly satisfied with the aircraft’s operational reliability since its integration into the fleet alongside the company’s two other owned Embraer E195s.
The acquisition required formal authorization from the state. Regional aviation portal EX-YU Aviation News reported that Air Montenegro submitted the purchase proposal to the relevant government ministry on March 3, 2026. Chairman of the Board of Directors Tihomir Dragaš stated that the board approved the proposal following a comprehensive analysis confirming the investment’s economic viability. The Government of Montenegro subsequently granted its consent to the transaction.
Fleet strategy and capacity planning
The transition from leased to owned assets aligns with Air Montenegro’s broader Strategy to reduce reliance on external capacity providers. By building an in-house fleet, the carrier aims to lower long-term operational costs, increase agility, and improve financial stability.
The airline is actively preparing for further capacity growth to support its summer network. A fourth Embraer E195 is expected to join the fleet soon. This additional aircraft is currently undergoing maintenance in Germany and will be introduced under a lease agreement rather than direct ownership.
AirPro News analysis
We view Air Montenegro’s shift toward owned assets as a necessary stabilization measure for a young national carrier. The regional aircraft leasing market remains constrained, and securing owned lift insulates the airline from escalating lease rates. While the upcoming fourth aircraft will rely on a lease structure, establishing a core owned fleet of three Embraer E195s provides a predictable cost baseline for year-round operations and reduces exposure to the volatile wet-lease market.
Sources: Air Montenegro
Photo Credit: Air Montenegro
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