Airbus SE closed Friday's trading session with a 0.94% gain, reaching €191.30 per share, as investors assessed the company's slower start to 2026 aircraft deliveries.
Delivery Pace Raises Cash Flow Questions
The European aerospace giant reported 19 commercial jet deliveries in January, a decline from the 25 aircraft handed over during the same month last year. This early-year slowdown has prompted market participants to reassess cash generation expectations, as monthly deliveries represent the company's primary revenue stream.
Airbus recorded 49 gross orders for the month before accounting for cancellations, compared to 55 gross orders in January 2025. The company's ability to accelerate delivery rates throughout the year will be crucial for meeting financial targets.
Persistent Supply Chain Challenges
Supply chain constraints continue to plague the aerospace sector, with executives at the Singapore Airshow expressing frustration over persistent bottlenecks. "We are afraid that this new norm will stay, which is completely unacceptable," stated Jeffrey Lam, Chief Operating Officer and President of Commercial Aerospace at ST Engineering, in comments to Reuters.
These ongoing delays in engine and component availability have created operational headwinds that could impact working capital requirements and potentially jeopardize annual guidance if not resolved.
Analyst Outlook and Upcoming Catalyst
Investment firm Jefferies maintained its Neutral rating on Airbus with a €215 price target, according to MarketScreener data. The analyst community is closely monitoring the company's progress in addressing production constraints.
Market attention now turns to Airbus's full-year 2025 financial results, scheduled for release on February 19, with an analyst conference call beginning at 07:30 CET. Investors will focus particularly on management's 2026 delivery forecasts and production guidance amid the challenging supply environment.