Airbus Eyes Record Quarter to Hit Delivery Target
Airbus delivered about 74 planes in October, leaving it needing a record fourth quarter to reach its 870-aircraft goal for 2026.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Transportation
Airbus delivered about 74 aircraft in October, according to a Bloomberg News report, and has handed over 547 planes in the first nine months of 2026, ahead of Boeing's 475. The company kept its target of around 870 deliveries this year and unchanged production goals during its third-quarter earnings update.
Why it matters
Airbus, the world's largest aircraft manufacturer, must deliver a record number of planes in the fourth quarter to meet its target, which would signal whether it can overcome persistent supply constraints. The outcome also shapes the competitive balance with Boeing in the global commercial aircraft market.
Airbus handed over 547 aircraft in the first nine months of 2026, compared with 475 for Boeing, while the roughly 74 October deliveries reported by Bloomberg News remain unverified by the company. Airbus needs to close the gap to its target of around 870 aircraft for the year.
The players
Airbus
Airbus is a European aerospace company and the world's largest aircraft manufacturer, producing commercial jets for airlines worldwide.
Boeing
Boeing is an American aerospace manufacturer and Airbus's main rival in the global commercial aircraft market.
Guillaume Faury
Guillaume Faury is the chief executive of Airbus, leading the company's production and delivery strategy.
Bloomberg News
Bloomberg News is a global financial news organization whose report first cited the October Airbus delivery figure.
The details
Airbus typically hands over a larger share of its aircraft toward year-end, but it has previously cut delivery forecasts because of engine shortages and broader supply chain disruptions. CEO Guillaume Faury said he is confident the company will meet its delivery target.
Timeline
October 2026: Airbus delivers about 74 planes and holds its third-quarter earnings update.
First nine months of 2026: Airbus hands over 547 aircraft, while Boeing hands over 475.
Friday, November 6, 2026: Airbus plans to publish official orders and deliveries figures.
Fourth quarter 2026: Airbus needs a record quarter to reach its target of around 870 aircraft.
Market Landscape
Airbus has in the past reduced delivery forecasts because of engine shortages and broader supply chain disruptions, and it is again relying on a strong year-end push. Its lead over Boeing in deliveries through September shows how the rivalry between the two largest commercial aircraft makers is being decided on output.
Delays in aircraft deliveries can push back airline fleet expansions, which may affect the timing and availability of flights for travelers. Airbus's ability to meet its target will influence how quickly new capacity reaches carriers.
The takeaway
Airbus's delivery pace in the coming months will show whether a record year-end can offset earlier supply shortfalls. Watching the official figures will give a clearer picture of the commercial aircraft market than monthly estimates alone.
What happens next
Airbus is scheduled to publish its official orders and deliveries figures on Friday, November 6, 2026, which will confirm or revise the unverified October total.
Further reading
For more on how aircraft makers' output shapes the sector, see Transportation.
