Airbus concluded 2024 with a total of 878 gross orders, resulting in 826 net orders after accounting for cancellations. This performance significantly outpaced Boeing’s 377 net orders during the same period. However, Airbus’s sales figures for the year were below its record of 2,319 orders in 2023 and also fell short of its ten-year average.
The A220 program faced challenges, ending the year with net negative orders due to several cancellations. The A321 was the standout performer among Airbus variants, securing 502 orders and becoming the best-selling model. The A330neo received a boost with 82 new orders and no cancellations, while the A350 continued to perform well with 142 new orders.
Air India’s substantial order for 100 aircraft led the list of top customers in terms of volume. Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chair of Air India, stated that “these additional 100 Airbus aircraft will help to position Air India on the path to greater growth.”
American Airlines placed an order for an additional 86 A321neo aircraft as part of a larger acquisition plan involving multiple manufacturers. Cebu Pacific confirmed an order for 70 A321s from an earlier memorandum with Airbus.
Riyadh Air announced plans to include A321neo family aircraft in its fleet, alongside Boeing widebodies. Saudia also ordered a significant number of A321s as part of a broader agreement involving other models within its group.
IndiGo continued expanding its fleet by ordering more narrowbody and widebody aircraft. Jet2 exercised options for additional units from a previous agreement.
Korean Air made headlines by placing the largest single order for A350s in 2024 as it prepares to integrate Asiana Airlines into its operations. Japan Airlines and Cathay Pacific rounded out the top ten with significant purchases aimed at fleet renewal and expansion.
Overall, while some programs experienced setbacks or slower sales than anticipated, others like the A330neo found renewed interest among major airlines.
