Airbus more than doubles Boeing’s new orders
European aerospace group Airbus has sharply widened its lead over U.S. rival Boeing in new aircraft orders. In the January–July 2026 period, Airbus secured orders for 1,090 aircraft versus 483 for Boeing — a gap of more than twice as many.
The current situation marks a turnaround from last year. In 2025, Boeing surpassed Airbus in sold aircraft for the first time since 2018: the American manufacturer won 1,173 orders against 889 for its European rival. At that time, Boeing was helped by major deals and the production recovery of the 737 MAX.
In the first half of 2026, Airbus already recorded 886 gross orders. After cancellations, the net figure stood at 821 aircraft — more than double the 402 units in the same period last year. At the end of June, the Airbus order book reached 9,222 commercial aircraft.
The company received an additional boost in July at the Farnborough Airshow. One of the world's largest aircraft lessors, SMBC Aviation Capital, ordered 100 A320neo family aircraft at once — 65 A321neo and 35 A320neo. In addition, Airbus received orders from other customers for the A220, A320neo and long‑range A350.
At the same time, Airbus leads Boeing not only in new contracts. Over the first six months, the European group handed over 351 commercial aircraft to customers, while Boeing delivered 314 units. The bulk of Boeing deliveries consisted of 243 aircraft of the 737 family, while Airbus supplied 271 aircraft of the A320 family.
Both manufacturers are simultaneously trying to accelerate aircraft output in the face of strong demand from airlines. Airbus plans to deliver around 870 commercial aircraft in 2026. Boeing is also ramping up 737 production and reports improvements in its production system and supply chains.
Demand for new passenger aircraft remains high over the long term. Boeing estimates that global airlines will need almost 44,000 new aircraft over the next 20 years, and that the worldwide commercial fleet will grow by almost 80% by 2045, to exceed 50,000 units.
