PARIS (Reuters) – Airbus is facing new pressure on its planned production ramp-up for passenger jets as the world’s largest planemaker struggles to overcome continued parts and labour shortages, industry sources said on Thursday. It was not immediately clear whether the slowdown would put at risk overall delivery targets for 2024 since deliveries lag output decisions by months, but the sources said assembly of several dozen jets could be delayed in the second half. Several airlines could see individual deliveries – already running an average of 1.5 months behind schedule – further delayed, the sources said, asking not to be identified.
An Airbus spokesperson reiterated the 2024 delivery target of 800 airplanes in the last quarterly results and declined further comment.
Airbus shares were down around 2% in the wake of the Reuters report, within a flat French blue-chip index.
By the end of April, Airbus had delivered 204 airplanes since the beginning of the year. Airbus plans to raise underlying production of aircraft by about 50% to 75 narrowbody planes a month in 2026.
Sources say Airbus hopes to recover delays to meet its medium-term goal, but the buffer for delays is shrinking. The supply chain accounts for up to 80% of Airbus jet content and stretches nine layers deep.
Each month Airbus holds an internal meeting to match industrial production to demand several years ahead.
In response to these challenges, Airbus is likely to implement several strategic measures to address its production issues. Airbus production issues require a multifaceted approach, focusing on immediate problem-solving and long-term resilience building.
Additionally, Airbus may invest in inventory management technologies to better anticipate and mitigate parts shortages.
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