Airbus SE has announced its consolidated financial results for the full year 2024, demonstrating resilience and growth despite a complex operating environment. The company reported a 5.8% increase in total sales, reaching €69.2 billion, driven by strong demand across all divisions. Adjusted operating profit reached €5.35 billion, slightly surpassing forecasts but reflecting a decline from €5.84 billion in the previous year.
Airbus delivered 766 commercial aircraft in 2024, including a record 123 deliveries in December. However, supply chain delays prevented the company from reaching its original target of 800 deliveries. While the commercial aircraft and helicopter divisions showed positive performance, the Defence and Space segment faced challenges, incurring a €300 million charge in the fourth quarter, bringing total annual charges to €1.3 billion. In response, Airbus is in discussions with Thales and Leonardo to consolidate their satellite businesses to enhance competitiveness in the space sector.
Looking ahead, Airbus has set a new target of delivering 820 commercial jets in 2025, a 7% increase from the previous year, although slightly below analyst expectations. CEO Guillaume Faury also acknowledged the rising competition from China’s Comac, which he believes could challenge the long-standing Airbus-Boeing duopoly in the aerospace industry.
Despite supply chain difficulties and geopolitical uncertainties, Airbus remains committed to profitable growth and sustainability initiatives, underscoring confidence in its long-term strategy.
