American aircraft manufacturer Boeing is showing a strong recovery in 2025 with around 600 commercial aircraft delivered, representing an increase of more than 70% compared to 2024. A strong signal for the global aerospace industry, even if the manufacturer still remains behind its European competitor Airbus in delivery volume.
Summary
Boeing returns to production levels not seen since 2018
According to the specialized press, Boeing delivered nearly 600 aircraft in 2025, compared to 348 the previous year. This is its best annual performance since 2018, before the 737 MAX crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic.
This recovery is based primarily on the single-aisle aircraft of the 737 family, which still constitute the core of the group's business, as well as on the gradual ramp-up of the 787 Dreamliner program on long-haul flights.
Orders are up, but Airbus remains world number one
Another positive sign for Boeing: with more than 1,100 net orders booked for 2025, the American aircraft manufacturer has overtaken Airbus on this metric for the first time in several years. This symbolic result reflects a return of confidence among airlines.
Airbus, however, maintains its status as the world leader in deliveries, with nearly 800 aircraft delivered to customers during the year. The European manufacturer was hampered by persistent supply chain tensions and difficulties with certain engines, leading it to slightly adjust its initial targets.
A recovery framed by regulation
Boeing's recovery accelerated at the end of 2025, following the gradual easing of restrictions imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on 737 MAX production. This development allowed the aircraft manufacturer to stabilize its production rates and further secure its quality processes.
The group now plans a gradual ramp-up of its production in 2026, under the close control of regulatory authorities.
What are the impacts for tourism professionals?
For tourism and air travel stakeholders, this rebound could translate into a gradual improvement in aircraft availability, particularly on long-haul routes. The resurgence of the 787 Dreamliner is likely to facilitate the opening or consolidation of intercontinental routes as early as 2026.
In the medium term, a more abundant air supply could contribute to better stability of flight schedules and a gradual easing of capacity, in a context where demand remains strong.
Key takeaways
After several difficult years, Boeing is expected to return to a level of activity more in line with its industrial potential by 2025. Airbus, however, maintains a significant lead in deliveries. For the tourism sector, this gradual restructuring of the aviation landscape is a key factor to monitor in order to anticipate the evolution of supply and capacity by 2026.
Updates
Article updated on January 14, 2026, based on data published by Boeing and Airbus and reported by the specialized press.
Sources
👉 Stay informed about business tourism trends: subscribe to InfosTourisme Inside.
📘 Also check out our practical pages for tourism professionals.
📩 Send your press releases
