Airbus Extends Lead Over Boeing in Mid-Year Delivery Numbers

Airbus maintained its lead over Boeing in the delivery of aircraft for the first half of 2026, despite a dip in July's numbers. The European planemaker handed over 67 jets to 39 customers last month, compared to 89 in June and 81 in May.

However, with a running total of 418 delivered jets so far this year, Airbus still comfortably outpaces Boeing, which has delivered approximately 365 aircraft through July. The gap between the two companies is significant, but not enormous.

Airbus' chief executive, Guillaume Faury, attributes the increase in deliveries to steadier engine supplies, which have been a major issue for the industry. He notes that the company has delivered 15% more aircraft in the first half of 2026 than it did during the same period last year.

The narrowbodies are driving Airbus' volume, with IndiGo taking seven A320neo-family jets and China Southern collecting four in July. The order book continues to swell, with a major commitment from lessor SMBC Aviation Capital for 100 A320neo-family jets headlining the month's orders.