The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] concluded 2024 with a significant drop in commercial aircraft deliveries. The result comes amid a year of ongoing struggles to recover from a series of production and regulatory setbacks.
The US plane manufacturer delivered 348 commercial airliners throughout the year, a stark decline from the 528 delivered in 2023. This performance further widens the gap between Boeing and its European rival, Airbus, which delivered a robust 766 aircraft in 2024.
2024 Commercial Deliveries
Boeing’s flagship 737 MAX, once a key driver of its commercial success, continued to face production hurdles.
The company delivered 265 narrowbody 737 aircraft in 2024, including 36 in the fourth quarter. While this represents a slight increase from previous quarters, it falls significantly short of the company’s ambitious production targets.
The wider-body segments also saw mixed results. Boeing delivered 18 767 aircraft and 14 777 aircraft throughout the year. The 787 Dreamliner, plagued by production and quality control issues, saw 51 deliveries, including 15 in the fourth quarter.
Airbus Dominates the Market
Airbus’s strong performance in 2024 solidified its position as the leading commercial aircraft manufacturer.
The European giant significantly outpaced Boeing in overall deliveries, capitalizing on strong demand for its A320neo family and other aircraft models.
This dominance highlights the challenges Boeing faces in regaining market share and meeting the growing global demand for air travel.
Boeing’s struggles in 2024 extend beyond mere production delays. The company faced significant reputational damage following the 737 MAX crashes, impacting customer confidence and order intake.
Rebuilding trust with airlines and the flying public is an ongoing challenge that requires consistent demonstration of safety and quality in all aspects of its operations.
Furthermore, the global aviation industry is facing increasing pressure to decarbonize. Boeing must continue to invest heavily in research and development of more sustainable aircraft technologies.
This could mean more fuel-efficient engines and potentially even hydrogen-powered aircraft, to remain competitive in the long term.
Looking Ahead
Boeing faces a critical period in 2025. The company must address the persistent production bottlenecks affecting its 737 MAX program. At the same time, it must ramp up production of its other aircraft models.
The manufacturer has invested heavily in its South Carolina factory, which produces the 787 Dreamliner.
In December 2024, Boeing announced a $1 billion investment to expand its South Carolina operations. This investment aims to increase the production rate of the 787 Dreamliner to 10 aircraft per month by 2026.
The successful resolution of the challenges that dogged the manufacturer in 2024 will be crucial for Boeing to regain its competitive edge and regain investor confidence.
