Airbus expects to deliver a record number of aircraft this year. In the title, the European aircraft manufacturer expects to deliver 870 commercial aircraft, significantly more than the 793 it delivered to customers in 2025.
This would be a record – the current record dates from 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic, with 863.
Net profit of €5.22 billion
Airbus posted revenue of 73.42 billion in 2025, up 6%. Growth was driven in part by a 15% increase in defense revenue. Adjusted operating profit (EBIT) rose by a third to 7.13 billion euros. The bottom line was 5.22 billion euros, almost a quarter more. The dividend will be increased from 3 to 3.2 euros per share.
For 2026, Airbus is forecasting an adjusted operating profit of 7.5 billion euros.
Troubles with the American supplier
Despite the hopeful expectations, it is not all plain sailing at Airbus. For example, uncertain engine deliveries are weighing on the A320 production rate. Airbus criticizes the fact that the American supplier Pratt & Whitney is unable to “commit to the number of engines ordered.”
According to CEO Guillaume Faury, this is leading to “significant shortages.” As a result, monthly production of A320s is expected to remain below target until the end of 2027, namely 70-75.
By early 2026, more than 800 aircraft worldwide will be grounded due to a technical problem with the metal powder in the engines. These aircraft do not need a ‘spare part,’ but often a completely new or fully reconditioned engine to be allowed to fly again.
To avoid damage claims, Pratt & Whitney is prioritizing spare engines for airlines such as Wizz Air and Lufthansa to get their grounded aircraft back in the air. But Airbus is now seeking legal action to force Pratt & Whitney to send engines back to the factory rather than to airlines’ maintenance hangars.
Still believe in hydrogen-powered flight
Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury also continues to believe in hydrogen-powered flight. The original goal of putting the first commercial hydrogen aircraft into service in 2035 has been revised due to the slow development of the necessary infrastructure and technological challenges. Airbus is now aiming for the period 2040-2045.
However, the preference now is for fully electric propulsion via hydrogen fuel cells. This system converts hydrogen into electricity to power propellers. Airbus is building much of the hydrogen technology itself through its own joint venture Aerostack, together with ElringKlinger.
The first major integrated ground tests are planned for 2027 in Munich, where the entire liquid hydrogen distribution system and the engines will be tested together.
There is considerable skepticism in the sector regarding hydrogen-powered flight. Major competitor Boeing, for example, is working closely with NASA on the X-66A, an aircraft with extremely thin, long wings (Truss-Braced Wing) that consumes up to 30% less kerosene.
