Airbus delivers 71 aircraft in March, improves A330-900 takeoff package

Despite these orders, Airbus saw a net order increase of 139 aircraft due to the removal of 72 A320neo orders during March. Cancelations included one A220-100 and three A320neo aircraft, pushing total cancelations to 76 for the year so far.

In comparison, Boeing disclosed it had delivered 130 commercial aircraft in the first quarter, including 105 737 MAXs. Boeing reported 241 gross orders in 2025, with 192 in March, including significant orders from BOC Aviation, FedEx Express, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air.

Additionally, Airbus announced that on April 9, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved the A330-900's enhanced takeoff performance package, referred to as 'Step-4.' This package features enhancements like the 'Enhanced Take Off Configurations (ETOC)' and faster landing gear retraction sequences, improving low-speed performance and payload capacity.

“These functions focus on enhancing the aircraft’s low-speed performance. This is achieved by further maximizing lift and reducing drag during the take-off and initial climb segments.”

Airbus explained 'Step-4' allows for additional revenue-generating payload and range-increasing fuel capacity of up to seven tonnes at runway-restricted airports, which include Madrid Barajas, Minneapolis-St. Paul International, London Gatwick, and others. The upgrade will first be utilized by Condor, with its availability as a line fit option for future A330-900 deliveries. However, Airbus did not specify when the package would be available for service.