Boeing February deliveries hit 51 to outpace Airbus

The Boeing Company reported an increase in jet deliveries for February, reaching its highest total for the month since 2018. The United States-based manufacturer delivered 51 aircraft, an improvement from 46 in January, and significantly outpaced its European rival Airbus SE. Deliveries are a vital metric for the industry, as planemakers receive the majority of their payment upon the handover of aircraft to customers. Boeing's February output included 43 single-aisle 737 MAX jets. Among these was a delivery to Shenzhen Airlines in China, which marked the final unit from a large group of aircraft requiring modifications following the 2018 and 2019 crashes that exposed issues with autonomous flight control systems. In the widebody category, the company delivered eight jets: three 787 Dreamliners, two 777 freighters, and three 767s. Despite the rise in total deliveries, the 787 Dreamliner program continues to face challenges. Production remains below the target rate of eight jets per month due to delays in the supply of premium-class seating for first and business cabins. While Lufthansa received one 787 last month, flight records show that 13 other Dreamliners are currently parked at various facilities awaiting completion. Airbus delivered 35 aircraft in February, consisting of 33 single-aisle jets and two widebody A350s. In terms of new business, Airbus booked 28 orders with no cancellations. This included a major order from Kazakhstan flag carrier Air Astana for 20 A321neos and five A320neos. Additionally, TIGERAIR TAIWAN CO LTD in Taiwan ordered two A321neos. Boeing received 21 new orders in February, including seven 737 MAX jets, eight 787s, and six 767s. Five of the 787 orders were placed by Air Astana. In Canada, WestJet ordered two 787s but cancelled six 737 orders, leaving Boeing with a net total of 15 new orders for the month. Year-to-date, Boeing has recorded 118 net orders and 97 deliveries, while Airbus has 38 orders and 54 deliveries.