Delta and Ethiopian 787 Orders Signal Boeing's Comeback Against Airbus Since 2018.
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Boeing surpassed Airbus in 2025 net jet orders for the first time since 2018, fueled by major 787 Dreamliner commitments from Delta and Ethiopian Airlines.
Key Takeaways
- •Boeing secured 1,173 net commercial jet orders in 2025, surpassing Airbus's 889 and marking its first annual win since 2018.
- •The 787 Dreamliner was the key widebody sales driver, anchored by Delta Air Lines' first direct order for up to 60 787-10s.
- •Ethiopian Airlines finalized an order for nine 787-9s and 11 737 MAX jets, boosting its long-haul fleet and total Boeing commitment to 20 aircraft.
- •The rebound suggests a restoration of airline confidence, but the focus shifts to production rates and supply chain stability for 2026 deliveries.
The Boeing order rebound marks a significant shift in the global aerospace landscape. The US manufacturer surpassed its European rival, Airbus, in net commercial jet orders for the first time since 2018, based on 2025 results. This reversal signals renewed confidence in Boeing's long-term programs. The company recorded 1,173 net orders for the year, significantly outpacing Airbus's 889 net orders. This performance is a major milestone following years of production and certification challenges.
Widebody Aircraft Demand Drives Turnaround
The strong performance was largely driven by widebody aircraft demand. The 787 Dreamliner commitments played a crucial role in this success. Boeing recorded 311 commitments for the Dreamliner family in 2025. This made it one of the strongest sales years for the program's history.
Delta Air Lines' Strategic Fleet Move
Delta Air Lines 787-10 order was a key highlight. The airline placed a firm order for 30 787-10 Dreamliners. This deal also included options for an additional 30 aircraft. This marks Delta's first direct purchase of any 787 variant. The 787-10 is known for its low seat-mile costs. It is intended to replace Delta's aging Boeing 767 fleet, supporting its fleet renewal strategy.
Ethiopian Airlines Expands Long-Haul Reach
Africa's largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, also bolstered the Boeing order rebound. The airline finalized an order for nine 787-9 Dreamliners. This order was part of a larger commitment for 20 Boeing aircraft. The 787-9 jets will support Ethiopian's long-haul route growth. The airline uses the efficient 787 to connect Africa with global destinations.
Technology Shift and Production Challenges
Beyond orders, Boeing is focusing on a broader aviation technology shift. The manufacturer is advancing a technology partnership with Salient Motion. This collaboration aims to shorten aircraft certification cycles. It also seeks to lower overall manufacturing costs. This focus addresses long-standing bottlenecks in the industry. The goal is to improve development timelines and cost structures.
Despite the sales victory, the Boeing Airbus rivalry remains intense. Airbus still maintained a lead in total deliveries for 2025. Airbus delivered 793 aircraft compared to Boeing's 600 deliveries. Boeing continues to face challenges with supply chain stability. Certification of new variants, like the 737 MAX 7 and MAX 10, is also critical. Investors are tracking how the large order backlog translates into consistent delivery performance.
- Key Takeaways for Stakeholders:
- Boeing secured 1,173 net orders in 2025, topping Airbus for the first time since 2018.
- The 787 Dreamliner was a primary sales driver, with 311 commitments during the year.
- Major orders from Delta Air Lines (up to 60 787s) and Ethiopian Airlines (nine 787-9s) anchor the widebody success.
- The industry is watching Boeing's ability to ramp up production and manage its supply chain.
This commercial success provides a strong foundation for Boeing's (https://www.boeing.com) operational recovery. The commercial jet orders signal a potential return to market leadership. The shift highlights the industry's strong demand for modern, fuel-efficient widebody aircraft.
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Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
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