Airbus Delivers 81 Jets in May as China Bottleneck Clears

• China appeared to delay Airbus deliveries to pressure the EU Aviation Safety Agency regarding certification of COMAC's C919 passenger jet, affecting about 20 aircraft in the first quarter
• Airbus faces a 2025 delivery target of 870 aircraft, which remains uncertain due to ongoing supply chain issues including missing engines, cabin equipment shortages, and slow deliveries from a former Spirit AeroSystems plant supplying the A350
• Analysts note that while May's strong performance helps clear stored inventory, Airbus must maintain momentum in coming months to achieve its annual delivery goals

Summary: Airbus May Deliveries Surge on China Resolution

Key Developments:

Airbus delivered 81 aircraft in May 2026, up significantly from 51 jets in May 2025, with the increase partially attributed to clearing a regulatory backlog with China. The European planemaker is expected to provide official confirmation in its Friday monthly update.

China Bottleneck Details:

• Approximately 20 aircraft were held up due to what Airbus termed a Chinese "administrative topic" in Q1 2026, now resolved
• Industry sources indicate China may have delayed deliveries to pressure EU regulators regarding certification of its domestically-produced C919 passenger jet
• The European Union Aviation Safety Agency stated that C919 validation work is "progressing with the full cooperation" of Chinese authorities and manufacturer COMAC

Market Implications:

Analysts remain cautious about whether May's delivery acceleration is sufficient for Airbus to meet its 2026 target of 870 total deliveries. The company faces ongoing supply chain challenges, including:

• Missing engines and cabin equipment shortages
• Slow deliveries from a former Spirit AeroSystems facility in the U.S. supplying A350 components

UK analyst Rob Morris noted that while Airbus is "making progress towards clearing stored inventory," the company must maintain strong momentum in coming months to stay on track with annual targets.

Bottom Line:

The resolution of the China regulatory dispute provides short-term relief, but persistent supply chain issues continue to threaten Airbus's full-year delivery goals.