The Trump surge: Boeing's orders skyrocket, overtaking Airbus following seven years of slow growth

Boeing Surges Ahead in 2025 Aviation Market

Boeing made a notable comeback in 2025, reshaping the commercial aviation sector. The company recorded its highest annual aircraft deliveries since 2018 and, for the first time in seven years, surpassed Airbus in new aircraft orders.

As detailed in a recent press release, Boeing delivered 600 commercial planes throughout the year, a substantial rise from previous years. December alone saw the handover of 63 jets.

This achievement highlights Boeing’s steady progress in increasing production after facing several operational hurdles in recent years.

Production had slowed in the wake of significant setbacks, including two fatal 737 Max accidents in 2018 and 2019, and a January 2024 incident involving a door plug failure mid-flight.

The Covid-19 pandemic further complicated matters for both Boeing and Airbus, with supply chain issues and workforce shortages continuing to disrupt manufacturing even after the peak of the crisis.

Boeing’s 2025 figures show that out of the 600 aircraft delivered, 447 were from the 737 series—a staple for many airlines’ single-aisle fleets—alongside deliveries of the 767, 777, and 787 wide-body models.

By the end of 2025, Boeing reported 1,173 net new orders, reflecting renewed confidence from airlines in the company’s product range and production reliability.

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Airbus Navigates Production Challenges

Meanwhile, Airbus announced in January that it delivered 793 commercial aircraft to 91 airlines in 2025. The company secured 1,000 gross orders for its jet lineup, resulting in 889 net orders after accounting for cancellations.

Airbus also reported a growing backlog, with more than 8,750 aircraft awaiting delivery in the coming years.

The manufacturer emphasized that the 793 deliveries demonstrate ongoing growth, despite persistent challenges in sourcing components for its popular A320 family.

Deliveries of the smaller A220, as well as the A330neo and A350 wide-body jets, also contributed to Airbus’s annual total.

Although Airbus continues to lead in total aircraft deliveries, Boeing’s strong order performance at the end of the year suggests a possible turning point, signaling recovery after previous production setbacks.

The Impact of US Advocacy on Boeing’s Success

Boeing’s surge in orders has been further fueled by prominent deals highlighted by the Trump administration.

During a White House visit to Qatar in May 2025, officials promoted a major Qatar Airways agreement worth $96 billion (€82.35 billion) for up to 210 Boeing 787 and 777X jets. The administration presented the deal as a major win for American manufacturing and job creation.

Qatar Airways described this as the largest wide-body and 787 order in Boeing’s history.

President Trump’s support for Boeing is closely linked to the company’s status as a leading US exporter and a key source of American jobs.

In various official statements, the administration has highlighted Boeing’s international deals as evidence of bringing investment and manufacturing back to the US, framing these orders as victories for employment and the trade balance.

Boeing’s leadership has publicly acknowledged Trump’s backing, with CEO Kelly Ortberg expressing gratitude for the administration’s support of the Qatar deal and underscoring Boeing’s role as a top American exporter.