Boeing's 787 Dreamliner Deliveries Slump as Order Book Cools

Boeing's commercial aircraft order book slowed in August due to weaker demand for its 787 Dreamliner, while deliveries edged lower as well. The company reported 42 gross orders last month, a significant drop from previous months, and net orders also declined after accounting for cancellations and conversions.

The delivery numbers showed that Boeing handed over 51 aircraft to customers in August, down from 56 jets delivered in July. This dip was largely driven by a decrease in 787 Dreamliner handovers, which fell to four aircraft during the month compared with seven Dreamliners delivered the previous month.

The 737 Max remains the backbone of Boeing's commercial portfolio and accounted for most of August deliveries. The single-aisle jet is crucial to the company's recovery strategy as production rates gradually climb toward the 38 aircraft per month ceiling imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following a door plug incident on an Alaska Airlines flight in January 2024.

Boeing has been working to demonstrate to regulators that its manufacturing processes have improved enough to justify lifting the production cap. Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg emphasized the importance of methodical rate increases, prioritizing quality control over volume in an effort to rebuild trust with airlines, regulators, and the flying public.