Airbus hikes output target for best-selling narrowbody jets

div classBodysc17zpet90 cdBBJodivpDUBLIN Reuters – Europes Airbus firmed up plans to raise production of its A320family narrowbody jets by 50 from current levels to a record 75 a month in 2025 as it posted higherthanexpected quarterly earnings on Wednesday.p

pThe worlds largest planemaker is already in the midst of restoring output for indemand singleaisle models as pandemic travel restrictions fade away, with an interim target of 65 A320family jets a month in summer 2023, up from 50 a month now.pdivdivdiv classBodysc17zpet90 cdBBJodiv

pOn Wednesday, it said it would go further and keep increasing monthly output beyond that date to reach 75 a month by middecade, cementing proposals tentatively aired last year.p

pEngine makers, who had led a rearguard action by suppliers worried about having to invest only to face overcapacity if Airbuss forecasts prove optimistic, partially opened the door to a hike last week by saying they had agreed quotas for 2024.p

pBut some experts fear widespread shortages in global supply chains will disrupt higher output in the short term.p

pAirbus said its benchmark adjusted operating profit rose 82 in the first quarter on the back of higher deliveries and a oneoff change in pension measurements, offset by the impact of sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine. It also confirmed a delay in its new A321XLR to early 2024.p

p

pp Reporting by Tim Hepher, Editing by Tassilo Hummel, Ingrid Melanderp

divdivdiv classBodysc17zpet90 cdBBJodivdivdiv