Boeing has seen a strong comeback in Q3 2025, delivering 160 commercial aircraft. This notably becomes the highest quarterly total since 2018.
The delivery surge, announced on October 14, 2025, signals a potential recovery from a challenging 2024, which saw a seven-week machinists’ strike disrupt operations.
With September alone accounting for 55 jet deliveries, up from 33 a year earlier, Boeing is regaining momentum.
Amidst the production boost, the manufacturer plans to scale up 737 MAX output, pending crucial FAA approval.
Boeing Q3 2025 Delivery Performance
Boeing’s Q3 performance showcases resilience. The 160 aircraft delivered between July and September included 121 Boeing 737s, 24 787 Dreamliners, 9 777s, and 6 767s.
September was particularly strong, with 41 of the 55 deliveries being 737 MAX jets. Major customers like Ryanair (10 jets), Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, China Southern, and lessor AerCap drove this demand.
Year-to-date, Boeing has handed over 440 commercial planes, putting it on track for its best annual performance since 2018, when it delivered 806 aircraft.
The defense sector also contributed, with 32 deliveries in Q3, including AH-64 Apache helicopters and KC-46 tankers, bringing the year-to-date defense total to 94 units.
This diversified output underscores Boeing’s ability to balance commercial and military production despite past setbacks.
Overcoming the Strike’s Impact
The Q3 success follows a turbulent 2024, marked by a machinists’ strike that halted production for nearly two months and cost an estimated $5–6 billion. Despite this, Boeing’s September deliveries jumped 67% year-over-year, reflecting efficient recovery efforts.
The company’s focus on quality control and production streamlining has paid off, positioning it to meet rising global demand. Boeing reported 870 net orders through September 2025, highlighting strong market confidence.
Plans to Boost 737 MAX Production
Boeing’s leadership, led by CEO Kelly Ortberg, is eyeing further growth. The company aims to increase 737 MAX production to 42 jets per month by year-end 2025, a 10% jump from the current rate of about 38.
This ambitious target depends on approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which capped MAX output after a January 2024 Alaska Airlines door-plug incident raised safety concerns.
The FAA is currently reviewing Boeing’s quality improvements, with a decision expected soon. Approval could unlock significant production increases in 2026, bolstering Boeing’s competitive edge.
Market Response and Competitive Landscape
Investors have responded positively, with Boeing’s stock (BA) rising roughly 2% after the Q3 report. However, Boeing faces stiff competition from Airbus, which delivered approximately 170 aircraft in Q3.
While Airbus maintains a slight edge, Boeing’s order backlog and production ramp-up plans signal a tightening race in the commercial aviation market.
Looking Ahead
Boeing’s Q3 2025 performance marks a pivotal moment. With 440 aircraft delivered this year and plans to scale up 737 MAX output, the manufacturer is poised for growth.
The FAA’s upcoming decision will be critical, potentially shaping Boeing’s trajectory into 2026.
