Paris, February 22 - Airbus has announced an upward revision to its commercial jet delivery forecast, targeting around 870 aircraft for 2026, marking a 10% increase over the 793 commercial jets delivered in 2025. This adjustment reflects the European manufacturer's confidence in overcoming recent production challenges and capitalizing on sustained demand from airlines worldwide. In 2025, Airbus achieved 793 deliveries to 91 customers, a 4% rise from the previous year despite falling short of its initial goal of 820 units due to supplier quality issues, including fuselage panel concerns on the A320 family, and other supply chain constraints. The company's performance underscored resilience amid a complex operating environment, supported by a robust order intake of 1,000 gross orders (889 net) throughout the year.
The projected 870 deliveries in 2026 would represent a record for Airbus, surpassing the pre-pandemic high of 863 aircraft set in 2019 and signaling a significant step toward full recovery in commercial aviation production rates. This forecast assumes stable global trade conditions, no major disruptions to air traffic or the supply chain, and continued progress in addressing engine availability limitations, particularly from key suppliers like Pratt & Whitney affecting the A320neo family ramp-up. Airbus plans to stabilize narrowbody production at 70 to 75 aircraft per month by the end of 2026, paving the way for a targeted rate of 75 per month beyond 2027. Such enhancements are critical for meeting backlog requirements and fulfilling commitments to customers eager to modernize fleets with fuel-efficient models.
Strong underlying demand for single-aisle and widebody aircraft drives this optimistic outlook, as airlines prioritize efficiency, sustainability, and capacity expansion in a post-recovery market. Airbus's extensive order backlog, exceeding 8,700 aircraft, provides multi-year visibility and supports scaled production investments. While challenges such as ongoing supply chain pressures persist, the company's strategic focus on operational improvements and supplier collaboration positions it to achieve this elevated target.
Overall, Airbus's raised commercial aircraft delivery guidance highlights renewed momentum in the aerospace sector, reinforcing its leadership in delivering advanced, eco-efficient jets to meet global aviation needs. This development bodes well for stakeholders tracking Airbus aircraft deliveries, production rates, and the broader commercial jet market trajectory into 2026 and beyond.
