Airbus ($EADSF) continued to outpace rival aircraft maker Boeing ($BA) in 2024 with 766 planes delivered during the year. For perspective, that’s more than double the 348 jets delivered by Boeing last year. It’s also not the first time Airbus beat Boeing in deliveries as it has done so during the past six years.
Interestingly, the gap between Airbus and Boeing deliveries increased in 2024 compared to the year prior. However, it had more to do with Boeing’s failures with its deliveries in 2023 totaling 528, as compared to Airbus’ 735 planes delivered that year.
EADSF is also handily beating BA in stock performance. The company’s shares increased 2.06% over the last year compared to BA’s 16.49% drop. Investors will note that Airbus scored a win in 2024 despite it being a rough year for the airline industry.
What’s Keeping Boeing Down?
Boeing has faced ongoing production troubles over the years and plenty of negative press from aircraft failures. That includes a door plug blowing off one of its 737 Max aircraft last year, forcing an Alaska Airlines ($ALK) flight to make an emergency landing.
On top of that, Boeing dealt with worker issues last year that delayed its aircraft production. Union workers went on strike for seven weeks, hampering the aircraft maker’s ability to produce more jets. That’s likely one reason why its deliveries in 2024 dropped to 348 jets compared to 528 in 2023.
Airbus vs. Boeing: Should Investors Buy EADSF or BA Shares?
Comparing Airbus and Boeing, the shares both have consensus Moderate Buy ratings from analysts. However, Boeing has more upside potential at 17.32% compared to Airbus’ 6.88%. This is likely due to BA’s poor performance over the last year with shares down 16.49%. If analysts are right, the stock might bounce back from its poor performance in 2025.
