Why Airbus and Boeing Aircraft Deliveries Slowed in January 2026
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
Airbus and Boeing delivered an estimated 72 aircraft in January 2026, a post-year-end drop reflecting a December surge and contractual delivery timing.
Key Takeaways
- •72 total aircraft were delivered by Airbus (27) and Boeing (45) in January 2026, a seasonal drop after the December year-end surge.
- •Boeing's 737 MAX (37 units) and Airbus's A320neo family (22 units) led narrowbody deliveries, reinforcing the single-aisle market's strength.
- •Contractual delivery timing, not production, was the main cause of the slowdown, as many physically-ferried aircraft were counted in the prior year's total.
- •Supply chain issues continue to challenge manufacturers and airlines, forcing operators to keep older aircraft flying longer.
The combined January 2026 aircraft deliveries for Airbus and Boeing totaled an estimated 72 commercial aircraft. This figure represents a notable dip following the aggressive year-end push in December. The lower Airbus Boeing delivery totals are typical for a post-year-end slowdown. Industry analysts point to contractual delivery timing as a major factor.
Delivery Breakdown and Context
Forecast International estimates show that Airbus delivered 27 aircraft in January. This total included 22 jets from the popular Airbus A320neo family and three A220s. Widebody deliveries for Airbus were limited, comprising one A330neo and one A350.
Boeing delivered an estimated 45 aircraft during the month. The Boeing 737 MAX program anchored this output, accounting for 37 737 MAX A320neo deliveries. Boeing's widebody activity included five 787 Dreamliners and three 777s.
The Contractual Timing Effect
This January slowdown does not necessarily reflect reduced commercial aircraft production rates. Instead, it highlights the technical definition of a delivery. Many aircraft were contractually delivered on December 31st to meet annual targets. These jets were then physically ferried to their airline operators throughout January. This practice artificially inflates December figures while reducing the January count.
Total commercial aircraft production (defined by first test flight) for the industry actually reached 93 aircraft in January 2026. This gap between production and contractual handover demonstrates a normalization of activity.
Industry Impact and Outlook
The continued focus on narrowbody widebody output is clear. Narrowbody aircraft accounted for 76 of the 93 aircraft produced in January. This reinforces the prioritization of single-aisle programs globally.
Supply chain challenges 2026 remain a significant concern for airlines. Unreliable delivery schedules for new aircraft and engines are causing operational headaches. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) noted that these issues forced airlines to keep older aircraft in service longer. This situation increases costs for operators worldwide.
Both major manufacturers are working to increase aircraft production rates throughout 2026. Airbus aims to ramp up A320 family production significantly in the coming years. Boeing is also preparing to increase rates for its best-selling 737 MAX and 787 programs. The industry hopes 2026 marks a rebound from the peak of the supply chain crisis.
- 72 Combined Deliveries: The total for January 2026 was 72 aircraft, with Boeing delivering 45 and Airbus delivering 27.
- Contractual Timing: The low January 2026 aircraft deliveries were primarily due to the year-end push, where contractual handovers occurred in December.
- Narrowbody Dominance: The 737 MAX (37 deliveries) and A320neo family (22 deliveries) continue to dominate the delivery landscape.
- Supply Chain Risk: Unreliable delivery schedules due to supply chain challenges 2026 continue to impact airline operations and costs.
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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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