Airbus Deliveries Fell 4% in May: What It Means for Airlines
Airbus deliveries fell 4% in May, according to industry sources, as the world’s top aircraft manufacturer struggles to meet its ambitious delivery targets for 2025. The company delivered approximately 51 aircraft during the month, compared to 53 in the same month last year.
This drop brings Airbus’s total deliveries for 2025 so far to about 243, which is a 5% decrease from the first five months of 2024. The European planemaker is now under growing pressure from its airline customers, who have been voicing frustration over continued delays and supply chain issues.
Why Did Airbus Deliveries Fall in May?
Engine Delays Continue to Haunt Production Lines
One of the main reasons Airbus deliveries fell 4% in May is the ongoing shortage of aircraft engines. Manufacturers like CFM International and Pratt & Whitney have been struggling to ramp up production due to global supply chain constraints. These delays directly impact Airbus’s ability to complete and deliver planes on time.
Airbus has acknowledged the issue, stating that the arrival of engines has been slower than expected. The company, however, believes that this situation will begin to stabilise over the summer.
2025 Delivery Target at Risk?
820 Aircraft Target Looks Challenging
Airbus has set an annual delivery goal of 820 aircraft in 2025, representing a 7% increase from the previous year. However, with five months already passed and only 243 planes delivered, the target now appears difficult to achieve unless production and supply issues are addressed quickly.
This means Airbus would need to deliver an average of 115 aircraft per month over the remaining seven months to meet its goal—a challenging feat under current circumstances.
Airlines Speak Out at Global Summit
Airlines Call for Transparency and Speed
At the annual airline gathering in New Delhi this week, global carriers criticised aircraft manufacturers—especially Airbus—for persistent delivery delays. Many airline executives expressed concern that delivery disruptions are affecting their route planning, fleet upgrades, and expansion strategies.
The COVID-19 pandemic had already disrupted aircraft production in 2020 and 2021. However, several airlines argue that four years later, manufacturers like Airbus should have resolved these bottlenecks.
What’s Next for Airbus?
Summer Stabilisation or Further Decline?
Airbus has stated that it expects the delivery situation to improve during the summer, thanks to better coordination with suppliers and adjustments in production lines. However, analysts remain cautious, pointing out that supply chains remain fragile and global demand is surging.
If Airbus deliveries fell 4% in May even after operational adjustments, it signals deeper structural issues that may take more than just a few months to fix.
A Closer Look: Short-Term Pain, Long-Term Gain?
While the current delivery decline is a concern, some analysts believe it may also force Airbus to improve long-term operational efficiency. By streamlining logistics and securing better supply contracts, Airbus might emerge stronger in 2026 and beyond.
Still, the immediate impact on airlines—especially low-cost and expanding carriers—is significant. Flight schedules, fleet modernisation, and even profit projections for many airlines could be affected.
Conclusion: Will Airbus Catch Up?
The fact that Airbus deliveries fell 4% in May puts the spotlight on whether the world’s leading aircraft maker can recover lost ground in the second half of the year. With increased airline demand, supply chain struggles, and a tight target of 820 aircraft, Airbus has little room for further delays.
For now, all eyes are on the June 5 performance bulletin, where the company is expected to provide detailed figures and perhaps a clearer outlook for the rest of 2025.
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