Boeing Secures 303 Jet Orders in May, Its Highest Monthly Total

Boeing Achieves Record Monthly Jet Orders in May

Boeing reported a significant surge in aircraft orders in May, securing 303 jets—the highest monthly total since June 2023. This increase coincides with the company’s efforts to ramp up production of its 737 model to 38 jets per month, the maximum rate currently authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The timing of this milestone is notable, coming just before the Paris Air Show, a key event where Boeing and its main competitor, Airbus, vie for new commercial aircraft contracts.

Strong Demand from Qatar Airways and Other Customers

A substantial portion of Boeing’s May orders originated from Qatar Airways, which finalized a deal for 150 widebody jets. This order includes 120 787 Dreamliners and 30 777-9s. The total was adjusted from an earlier announcement of 160 jets after Boeing clarified that 10 of the 787s had been ordered in March and were previously attributed to an unidentified customer. Beyond Qatar Airways, Boeing secured orders for seven additional 787s from undisclosed buyers, bringing the total widebody orders for the month to 157.

Demand for narrowbody aircraft also remained robust. Boeing closed orders for 146 737 Max jets in May, with 119 placed by unidentified customers, 20 by Saudi leasing company AviLease, and seven by Canadian low-cost carrier WestJet. This strong interest in both widebody and narrowbody jets reflects a broad-based confidence in Boeing’s commercial aircraft offerings.

Production Challenges and Delivery Outlook

Despite the positive order momentum, Boeing faces ongoing challenges. Delivery delays for the 737 MAX 10 variant have raised concerns, with major customers such as United Airlines reportedly considering shifting orders to other models. These potential changes could affect Boeing’s future sales trajectory.

The company is under close regulatory scrutiny as it seeks FAA approval to increase 737 production beyond the current cap. Boeing emphasized its commitment to stabilizing the 737 production system, stating that it is working to meet agreed-upon performance indicators with the FAA.

In terms of deliveries, Boeing maintained a steady pace, handing over 45 jets in May, matching the total from April. The deliveries included 31 737 Max aircraft, one 737NG-based P-8 maritime surveillance plane, one 767 Freighter, five 777 Freighters, and seven 787s. Boeing’s backlog expanded to 5,943 jets at the end of May, an increase of 300 from the previous month.

Market Competition and Broader Production Efforts

Competition in the commercial aviation sector remains intense. Airbus has delivered 243 aircraft so far this year, including 51 in May, underscoring the competitive environment Boeing faces. Beyond commercial aviation, Boeing is also accelerating production of its F-15EX fighter jets, aiming to strengthen U.S. defense capabilities amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

As the Paris Air Show approaches, Boeing’s strong order book and production advancements position the company favorably. However, delivery challenges and regulatory oversight will continue to be critical factors influencing its performance in the coming months.