Boeing vs. Airbus

Boeing to overtake Airbus jet deliveries

By Andrew Parker, FT.com

January 2, 2013 -- Updated 0023 GMT (0823 HKT)

The new Boeing Dreamliner helped the manufacturer overtake Airbus in deliveries.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

• Boeing is set to overtake Airbus for the first time in a decade by delivering more passenger jets
• The US manufacturer is cranking up production of its 787 Dreamliner after years of delay

(Financial Times) -- Boeing is set to overtake Airbus for the first time in a decade by delivering more passenger jets to customers in 2012, primarily because the US manufacturer is cranking up production of its 787 Dreamliner after years of delay.

Four analysts estimated Boeing's jet deliveries to airlines and leasing companies would exceed those of Airbus in 2012, adding the US company should maintain its lead over its European rival until at least 2015.

As the two manufacturers increase production of single- and twin-aisle aircraft significantly over the coming three years in response to strong demand, Boeing and EADS, Airbus' parent, are well placed to boost shareholder returns.

However, both groups are facing questions about how long they can sustain their higher production rates.

Nick Cunningham, analyst at Agency Partners, predicted the two manufacturers would cut aircraft production after 2015