Boeing (BA) on Tuesday reported strong aircraft demand in November, posting 164 gross orders as widebody sales, especially for the 777X, helped the U.S. manufacturer widen its lead over Airbus (EADSF) (EADSY).
Nearly half of Boeing’s (BA) November orders were tied to the 777X program, including a major commitment from Emirates for 65 jets. Another buyer ordered nine of the widebody aircraft. The month also included orders for 43 of its 737 Max planes, 30 of its 787 Dreamliners and 17 additional widebody models.
Cumulative orders for Boeing (BA) reached about 1,000 aircraft through the first 11 months of the year, outpacing Airbus (EADSF) (EADSY), which has logged 797 orders over the same period. Airbus recorded 75 new sales in November. Boeing’s momentum has been supported by robust demand for long-haul aircraft and vocal backing from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The two manufacturers’ trajectories have diverged recently as Airbus contends with manufacturing issues and revised production expectations. The European planemaker has flagged quality concerns related to metal components and lowered its delivery forecast for the year.
FAA orders inspections of A320s
Adding to those challenges, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration this week issued updated safety guidance covering nearly 2,000 Airbus A320-family jets, requiring more frequent inspections of door fasteners for potential cracking.
Those developments have weighed on confidence in Airbus, while Boeing has stepped up its execution, according to International Air Transport Association Director General Willie Walsh.
Airbus (EADSF) (EADSY) is preparing for record output of its single-aisle aircraft, while Boeing continues a measured production ramp-up under increased regulatory oversight following last year’s midair 737 Max panel failure.
In October, the FAA approved a higher monthly production ceiling of 42 jets for the 737 line, though Boeing (BA) has yet to formally move to that rate as it evaluates manufacturing consistency.
Aircraft deliveries remained uneven in November. Boeing (BA) handed over 44 planes during the month, including 32 737 Max jets and six Dreamliners, with the Thanksgiving holiday contributing to slower output.
Airbus (EADSF) (EADSY) delivered 72 aircraft in November and will need to deliver 133 planes in December to meet its updated annual target. Through the end of November, Airbus deliveries totaled 657 aircraft, compared with 537 for Boeing (BA).
Despite its strongest widebody sales pace since 2007, Boeing (BA) recorded 38 order cancellations in November. Etihad Airways accounted for most of those, canceling orders for 15 777X jets and seven 787 Dreamliners.