Boeing Outpaces Airbus in Aircraft Orders in 2025

International

US manufacturer records 1,173 orders, reclaiming lead for the first time since 2018

Boeing has outperformed its European rival Airbus in annual aircraft orders for the first time since 2018. According to newly released figures, Boeing secured 1,173 orders in 2025, compared with Airbus’ 889, marking a significant shift in the competitive balance of the global aircraft market.

Sharp rebound in orders and deliveries

Boeing’s 2025 order total represents a substantial increase from the 377 net orders recorded in 2024 and ranks as the fifth-highest annual figure in the company’s history. Deliveries also accelerated over the course of the year. In December alone, Boeing handed over 63 jetliners, bringing total deliveries for 2025 to 600 aircraft. This is the manufacturer’s highest annual delivery count in seven years and a notable rise from the 348 aircraft delivered the previous year.

Airbus, however, continued to lead in overall deliveries. The European manufacturer delivered 793 aircraft in 2025, more than Boeing, although the figure remains below its record of 863 deliveries achieved in 2019.

Supply chain constraints continue to weigh on the industry

Despite the rebound in orders and deliveries, aircraft manufacturers remain affected by engine shortages and broader supply chain disruptions. These constraints have delayed handovers across the industry. Deliveries are particularly critical for manufacturers, as airlines typically pay the majority of an aircraft’s purchase price upon delivery rather than at the time of order.

Strong end-of-year momentum for Boeing

Boeing booked 174 aircraft orders in December alone, including more than 100 737 MAX aircraft for Alaska Airlines, a deal confirmed by the Seattle-based carrier earlier this month. The late-year surge contributed significantly to Boeing’s strong annual order performance.

Additional momentum came from a major widebody commitment announced this week by Delta Air Lines. The carrier placed its first-ever order for Boeing widebody aircraft, committing to at least 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, further strengthening Boeing’s long-haul order book.

Competitive landscape remains tight

While Boeing’s order lead in 2025 marks an important milestone, Airbus’ higher delivery volume underscores the continued intensity of competition between the world’s two largest aircraft manufacturers. With supply chain challenges persisting and airlines seeking fuel-efficient, next-generation fleets, both companies remain under pressure to convert strong order backlogs into timely deliveries.