Airbus A350 gains ground over delayed Boeing competitors in long-haul market

Airbus’s consistent delivery timelines for the A350 contrast with production issues faced by Boeing on its 787 Dreamliner program and ongoing delays with the new 777X model. While Airbus has delivered hundreds of A350s since its entry into service in 2015—669 deliveries out of 1,428 orders—Boeing’s next-generation competitor remains undelivered as of September 2025 despite having secured over 600 orders.

"The A350 has also been winning key orders from major global airlines such as Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Lufthansa, some of which have historically been strong Boeing customers," analysts note. "Each major order that goes to Airbus is not only a lost sale for Boeing but also a potential shift in long-term fleet strategy by the airline."

Operational data supports this trend: The A350-900 seats about 300–350 passengers with an approximate range of 8,100 nautical miles (15,000 km), while its larger sibling—the A350-1000—can carry up to around 410 passengers over slightly shorter distances. The specialized ultra-long-range variant (A350-900ULR) extends this reach further still.

Meanwhile, Boeing’s upcoming models—the 777-8 and larger-capacity 777-9—promise technological advances like folding wingtips for airport compatibility and new GE9X engines designed for greater fuel efficiency. However, their delayed entry into service means many airlines are opting for proven solutions like the A350 when updating their fleets or expanding long-haul operations.

Both manufacturers emphasize innovation: The Airbus model uses more than half carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers in its structure for weight reduction; it is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines known for their efficiency gains compared to older jets. The Boeing design features composite materials combined with aluminum alloys along with aerodynamic improvements intended to reduce drag and improve performance on high-demand routes.

"From a cost-of-ownership perspective," industry experts say,"the A350 benefits from its head start in service... Its relatively mature supply chain and proven reliability contribute to lower unforeseen maintenance costs." For now, uncertainty surrounds initial maintenance expenses on the yet-to-be-delivered Boeing jets.

Passenger comfort remains central: Both aircraft offer wide cabins (A350 at just over five-and-a-half meters; 777X nearly six meters), low cabin altitude settings at cruising level (6,000 feet), improved air quality systems—and both are positioned as suitable choices for international travel requiring high capacity over great distances.

"In this context," commentators conclude,"the A350 is more than just a competitor; it represents a strategic threat to Boeing’s dominance in widebody aircraft." Unless Boeing can resolve production challenges surrounding certification and delivery schedules for its latest models—and restore confidence among airline customers—the lead established by Airbus is likely to continue growing.