Delays from Spirit AeroSystems Cast Doubt on Near-Term Output Growth
Airbus, the world’s largest aircraft manufacturer, is facing significant supply chain challenges that are hampering its ability to ramp up production of the A350 widebody jetliner. According to industry sources, ongoing delays in the delivery of fuselage components from Spirit AeroSystems have forced Airbus to adjust its production expectations for 2025 and beyond.
While Airbus remains committed to its long-term goal of producing 12 A350 jets per month by 2028, the company is struggling to move beyond the current six jets per month production rate, raising concerns about potential disruptions in the global aviation supply chain.
Challenges in A350 Production: What’s Causing the Delays?
The primary issue affecting A350 production is the delayed arrival of fuselage components from Spirit AeroSystems, a major aerospace supplier based in the United States.
📌 Spirit’s Kinston, North Carolina plant is responsible for supplying critical fuselage sections for the A350.
📌 Supply chain disruptions were first reported in late 2023, with Airbus acknowledging production challenges in its Q3 earnings report.
📌 Sources now suggest that Airbus may not be able to significantly increase A350 output before late 2026, much later than originally anticipated.
Spirit AeroSystems, which primarily supplies Boeing, has declined to comment on the delays. However, Boeing is in the process of acquiring its former subsidiary and restructuring its operations—raising questions about how this transition may further impact Airbus’ supply flow.
Airbus’ Production Goals and the Impact of Delays
Airbus had initially set an ambitious target to restore and expand A350 production following pandemic-related cuts. The company halved production during COVID-19, reducing output to five jets per month, before increasing it to six per month in 2023.
However, despite strong demand for long-haul aircraft, Airbus has struggled to exceed six jets per month due to supplier constraints. In January 2025, the company delivered only two A350s, highlighting the ongoing production bottlenecks.
Airbus has not officially revised its long-term target of producing 12 A350s per month by 2028, but sources indicate that any significant increase before 2026 is unlikely.
What This Means for Airlines and the Aerospace Industry
The slowdown in A350 production could have wider implications for airlines and the aviation industry:
✈️ Delayed Aircraft Deliveries – Airlines that have placed orders for A350s may experience longer wait times, potentially affecting their fleet expansion and renewal plans.
✈️ Increased Costs for Carriers – Airlines relying on new aircraft for fuel efficiency gains may face higher operational costs, as they are forced to continue flying older, less fuel-efficient planes.
✈️ Stronger Demand for Rival Aircraft – The delays could benefit Boeing, as airlines may shift orders toward competing long-haul models like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Airbus’ Response: Managing Supply Chain Risks
Airbus has acknowledged the supply chain disruptions but has not publicly adjusted its production forecasts. A spokesperson for the company referred back to previous comments made in October 2024, stating that Airbus is “actively managing specific supply chain challenges” that may affect production beyond 2025.
However, industry analysts believe Airbus may need to revise its near-term expectations if Spirit AeroSystems fails to resolve delivery issues quickly.
Potential Solutions Airbus Could Explore
✔ Strengthening Supply Chain Partnerships – Airbus could work with alternative suppliers or increase in-house manufacturing to reduce reliance on Spirit AeroSystems.
✔ Production Flexibility – Adjusting manufacturing schedules and prioritizing high-demand configurations could help mitigate the impact of delays.
✔ Government and Industry Support – Airbus may seek European government backing or industry-wide collaboration to address critical supply chain bottlenecks.
Financial Implications for Airbus and Investors
The ongoing production challenges could impact Airbus’ financial performance and investor confidence:
📉 Revenue Impact – If Airbus is unable to meet delivery schedules, it may see a decline in revenue from deferred aircraft sales.
📉 Stock Market Reactions – Investors will closely watch Airbus’ annual earnings report, scheduled for Thursday, February 15, 2025, for any updates on production targets.
📉 Competitive Pressure from Boeing – If delays persist, Boeing could capitalize on the situation by pushing its own long-haul aircraft as an alternative.
Despite these concerns, Airbus remains the dominant player in the global aircraft market, and strong demand for A350s continues to support its long-term growth strategy.
Conclusion: Airbus Navigates a Complex Supply Chain Landscape
While Airbus remains committed to increasing A350 production, ongoing fuselage supply issues from Spirit AeroSystems pose significant challenges. With delays expected to persist through 2025 and into 2026, airlines and industry stakeholders must prepare for potential disruptions in aircraft deliveries.
As the aviation sector continues its post-pandemic recovery, Airbus will need to strategically manage supply chain risks to maintain its market leadership and meet global demand for new aircraft.
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