Boeing is set to surpass Airbus in net aircraft orders for 2025, marking its first victory in six years despite trailing in deliveries and backlog, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury acknowledged.

American aircraft manufacturer recorded 908 net orders between January and November compared to Airbus' 700, Faury told France's Inter Radio. Boeing's resurgence stems largely from strong demand for its 787 Dreamliner, with over 700 widebody planes still awaiting manufacture.

Airbus CEO conceded the race while emphasizing his company maintains a comfortable lead in overall backlog. European manufacturer holds at least five years' worth of aircraft orders, significantly higher than Boeing's pipeline.

"Boeing will likely take the overall crown," Faury said, attributing Boeing's gains partly to tariff and trade negotiations that generated additional orders.

For Airbus, success hinges on its A321 series, including game-changing A321XLR jets that enable airlines to deploy narrowbody aircraft on long-haul routes with lower capacity and overhead costs. Company received 797 aircraft orders through November, with 544 narrowbody and 253 widebody planes.

Major Airbus customers include United Airlines, BOC Aviation, Avolon, VietJet Air, Riyadh Air and IndiGo. Manufacturer remains world's largest by deliveries and continues expanding with additional assembly lines in China and United States.

Airbus recently doubled production capacity at its Tianjin factory with a second assembly line, targeting 75 planes monthly by 2027. China represents a critical battleground, with over 500 jets expected to be ordered by the world's most populous country.

Boeing's 787 Dreamliner popularity reflects airlines' desire to revolutionize long-haul networks with operationally efficient widebody aircraft capable of serving previously unviable markets.

Source: Simple Flying.