According to data released on 13/1, Boeing's net orders last year totaled 1,173 aircraft, while Airbus recorded 889.
Despite this, Boeing still trails Airbus in deliveries, a situation attributed to persistent issues following the 737 MAX incidents in 2018 and 2019. Boeing delivered 63 aircraft last month, bringing its annual total to 600. Airbus, in contrast, delivered 793.
Airbus also holds a larger backlog, with 8,754 aircraft orders outstanding by the end of 2025. Boeing currently has 6,720 unfulfilled orders.
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A Boeing 737 MAX at the Farnborough International Airshow (UK). Photo: Reuters |
The improved order numbers signal a positive turn for Boeing following a turbulent 2024. Early in 2024, an Alaska Airlines aircraft made an emergency landing due to a door plug malfunction. Later that year, production in the Seattle area halted for several weeks due to a workers' strike.
Following the Alaska Airlines incident, the US aircraft manufacturer tightened quality control and production under the oversight of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In 10/2025, the FAA approved Boeing's request to increase 737 MAX production to 42 aircraft per month, up from the previous 38. This was seen as a significant sign of progress.
"Our team worked effectively throughout 2025 to improve the on-time delivery of safe, high-quality aircraft to customers. This supports their growth and modernization plans," stated Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing's commercial aircraft division.
On 13/1, Boeing also secured an additional order from Delta Air Lines for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, with an option to purchase 30 more. This order was not included in the company's 2025 figures.
On CNBC, Delta CEO Ed Bastian noted that they were the only major US airline not yet operating this popular aircraft type. The airline trusts Boeing's revitalization efforts under CEO Kelly Ortberg. "Observing the progress they have made, we recognize that the transformation is still ongoing," Bastian said.
Analysts suggest that US President Donald Trump's import tax policies also contributed to increased orders for Boeing. Some airlines purchased Boeing aircraft or strategically timed order announcements to alleviate trade tensions with the US this year, particularly in Asia.
At a conference in 9/2025, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg acknowledged that "the administration provided significant support" in boosting sales campaigns, and they benefited from Mr. Trump's efforts to increase exports. Demand for new aircraft models also drove sales.
Ha Thu (according to AFP, Reuters)
