Boeing Boosts 737 MAX Deliveries Amid Comac's Africa Push

Boeing reported a strong start to 2026, delivering 46 commercial aircraft in January. This marks a significant step in the manufacturer's production recovery, particularly for its 737 MAX program, as it faces intensifying competition from new entrants like China's Comac in emerging markets.

The increased output is critical for Boeing as it works to reduce a substantial order backlog and reassert its market position against both Airbus and new competitors. The aerospace manufacturing recovery is being closely watched by airlines awaiting new aircraft to meet resurgent travel demand. The competitive landscape is shifting, with state-owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China, Ltd. (Comac) actively pursuing opportunities outside its domestic market.

Production Ramps Up After Regulatory Scrutiny

Boeing's January performance outpaced its primary competitor, Airbus, which delivered 19 aircraft in the same period. Of Boeing's 46 deliveries, 37 or 38 were from the 737 MAX family, according to ePlaneAI data. This follows the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifting the 737 MAX production cap from 38 to 42 aircraft per month in October 2025. The cap was imposed following extensive safety and quality reviews. For more details on regulatory actions, the FAA provides regular updates on its Boeing oversight.

On the sales front, Boeing booked 107 gross orders in January 2026, while Airbus secured 49 net orders. Despite the strong month, Boeing's total commercial aircraft backlog of approximately 6,770 aircraft remains smaller than Airbus's backlog of over 8,600 planes.

Comac Targets African Market

The production ramp-up comes at a pivotal time, as Comac seeks to establish a foothold in Africa with its C919 narrow-body jet, a direct competitor to the 737 MAX. Nigeria's Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is currently evaluating the certification of the Comac C919, a necessary step for its operation in the country. Comac is reportedly offering comprehensive support packages, including maintenance and training, to incentivize adoption by Nigerian carriers.

Industry analysis suggests Comac's international expansion faces significant hurdles. The C919 has not yet been certified by the FAA or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This lack of certification can complicate aircraft financing, insurance, and access to global markets. Experts also note that for Comac to succeed in Africa, it must overcome previous challenges with after-sales support and spare parts availability that have affected other Chinese-made aircraft on the continent.

What Comes Next

Both Boeing and Airbus are under pressure to continue increasing their production rates. Boeing is targeting future 737 production rates of 47 and then 52 aircraft per month, though these increases are subject to FAA approval. As legacy manufacturers work through their backlogs, the ability of new entrants like Comac to secure key certifications and build a reliable support network will determine their success in challenging the established Boeing-Airbus duopoly.

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