Boeing shares advanced 2.6% on Friday, closing at $243.03, as investors reacted to reports of significant new aircraft demand from key international markets. The stock traded between $236.70 and $246.19 during the session.
Major Order Catalysts
India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal stated Thursday that a trade agreement with the United States could be finalized by March, which may include the purchase of $70–80 billion worth of Boeing aircraft. He indicated total orders for aircraft, engines, and parts could reach approximately $100 billion.
Separately, Saudi Arabian airline Saudia is in preliminary talks with Boeing and rival Airbus for an order of at least 150 jets, split between narrowbody and widebody models, according to a Bloomberg report.
Persistent Headwinds
Despite the optimistic order chatter, Boeing continues to face substantial operational challenges. Supply chain disruptions are delaying production and deliveries, forcing airlines to extend the service life of older aircraft. ST Engineering's commercial aerospace president called the situation "completely unacceptable" in remarks at the Singapore Airshow.
Regulatory scrutiny also remains elevated. Air India is investigating a compliance issue involving a Boeing jet that traveled from London with a suspected fuel problem, with British authorities giving the carrier one week to respond to avoid potential penalties.
Internal Signals and Market Focus
Boeing Chief Engineer Howard McKenzie sold 10,497 shares on February 5 at approximately $234 each, according to regulatory filings. He retains direct ownership of 14,692 shares.
Market attention now shifts to Monday's trading session, watching for any official announcements from the India-U.S. trade pact or additional orders as the Singapore Airshow concludes. Investors are weighing whether order rumors will translate into firm contracts and timely deliveries against the backdrop of ongoing production constraints.
