Airbus Projects 820 Jet Deliveries in 2025, Announces New Charges for Space Business

Airbus anticipates a 7% increase in commercial aircraft deliveries, despite challenges with delays and cost overruns / Reuters

Airbus is forecasting a significant increase in its commercial aircraft deliveries for 2025, targeting a 7% rise, which translates to approximately 820 jets. This projection comes as part of the company's broader plan to maintain its competitive edge in the aerospace market, following record deliveries in the past. The 820 deliveries for 2025 would be a step forward, and the company has already shown strong performance in securing orders for its A350 aircraft, which continues to be in high demand from long-haul carriers.

Despite this optimistic forecast, Airbus is facing multiple challenges that could impact the realization of these delivery targets. One major obstacle is the delay in the A350 freighter model, a key player in the company's long-term plans. This delay has been linked to ongoing supply chain issues, particularly with fuselage parts supplied by Spirit AeroSystems, a key partner in the production of Airbus's commercial jets. The delays have resulted in pushing back the freighter's entry into service, possibly by up to a year.

In addition to delays in aircraft delivery, Airbus's Space division is also facing significant hurdles. The company has announced a fresh charge of €300 million ($312.63 million) to address ongoing issues in its Space business, which has been plagued by cost overruns and increased competition from private companies like SpaceX, which has expanded its Starlink satellite network. This additional charge brings the total cost related to the Space division to €1.6 billion, highlighting the financial strain this sector has placed on the aerospace giant.

The challenges within Airbus’s Space business are compounded by the slow sales of its A400M military transport aircraft. The company has raised concerns about the future of this aircraft model, which has faced difficulties in attracting buyers and maintaining consistent demand from military clients. These risks add a layer of uncertainty to Airbus's broader financial performance, particularly as it grapples with the dual pressures of increasing aircraft deliveries while managing the costs of its Space and defense ventures.

However, despite these hurdles, Airbus continues to secure strong orders for its commercial aircraft, particularly the A350 model. In January 2025 alone, the company received 55 new orders for the A350, valued at $57 billion. This surge in demand, particularly from Middle Eastern carriers, underscores the long-term viability of Airbus’s wide-body aircraft in the competitive long-haul flight market. The A350’s proven efficiency and advanced technology continue to make it a top choice for airlines looking to modernize their fleets.

Airbus’s positive outlook on jet deliveries for 2025 is largely influenced by the strong demand for its wide-body aircraft, as well as the company’s ongoing efforts to resolve the supply chain issues that have hindered production. By focusing on these core areas and addressing the challenges within its Space and defense segments, Airbus aims to maintain its position as a leader in the aerospace industry while driving forward with ambitious delivery targets.

Despite the hurdles, Airbus’s 2025 delivery target of 820 jets represents a significant achievement if met, and the company’s ability to balance these challenges will be a key factor in ensuring continued growth and profitability.