European aircraft manufacturer Airbus failed to meet its annual target for aircraft deliveries in 2024, stopping at 765 aircraft. This figure, although solid, illustrates the ongoing challenges of an industry in the midst of a post-Covid recovery.
An adjusted objective, but missed by Airbus
Airbus had set its objective at “around 770» deliveries for 2024. According to preliminary data, the manufacturer ultimately delivered just over 765 aircrafta result below initial expectations. The objective could not be achieved due to postponements of deliveries, linked to complex negotiations with airlines and suppliers. Among the latter, seat and engine manufacturers play a key role in the pace of production.
The month of December, although marking an annual record with 122 aircraft delivered, was not enough to close the gap. To achieve its objectives, Airbus would have had to deliver 127 aircraft over this period alone. For comparison, at the end of November, the manufacturer had already delivered 643 devices, or 20 more than over the same period in 2023.
These performances reflect a gradual return to strength since the slowdown observed in August and September, when Airbus only delivered around fifty planes per month.
The 2024 figures also demonstrate an incomplete recovery for the aviation industry. Despite an improvement compared to previous years, Airbus remains behind its record performance in 2019, when it delivered more than 860 aircraft. This situation is explained in particular by persistent supply problems, aggravated by the health crisis. In July, the company had also lowered its initial objective to integrate these constraints.
Persistent challenges for the aeronautical sector
An agreement signed in November with CFM International – a joint venture of GE Aerospace and Safran – for additional engine deliveries allowed Airbus to avoid a second warning on its results for 2024. These adjustments demonstrate the manufacturer's effort to stabilize its performance in a context marked by the complexity of supply chains.
For 2025, the outlook remains to be clarified. Airbus is due to unveil its annual forecasts on February 20, along with its full results for 2024. These will make it possible to measure the impact of deliveries on the profitability of the company, which derives a major part of its profits from sales of commercial aircraft.
Despite the slight decline, Airbus maintains a solid position in a rapidly changing global market. The 2024 results nevertheless recall the structural challenges facing the industry, between logistical constraints and growing customer demands.
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