Boeing announced it will delay a major increase in production of its best-selling 737 Max aircraft until the second half of 2027 due to slower-than-anticipated wing manufacturing. Currently, the company is producing about 47 planes per month and aims to raise that to 52 planes monthly by late 2027. CEO Kelly Ortberg emphasized the importance of stabilizing production rates before accelerating, highlighting Boeing’s commitment to maintaining high safety and quality standards amid rising expectations.

In its third-quarter financial report, Boeing narrowed its losses significantly compared to the previous year, reporting a net loss of $116 million, or 26 cents per share, versus a $5.34 billion loss a year earlier. Adjusted loss per share stood at 34 cents, higher than the expected 21 cents. Revenue rose 4% year-over-year to $24.19 billion, buoyed largely by a 15% increase in the defense business, which generated $7.94 billion. However, the commercial aircraft segment saw revenue dip 3% to $10.72 billion, with profitability hampered by unfavorable delivery mix and increased production and supply chain costs.

Boeing’s commercial airplane deliveries increased slightly, with 161 planes delivered in the quarter, one more than the previous year’s figure. The company’s confidence in its recovery strategy remains firm, with Ortberg noting the need for ongoing improvements in lean manufacturing, productivity, and efficiency. These initiatives are seen as critical to lifting Boeing’s performance in the face of persistent challenges related to production costs and rate adjustments.

On the regulatory front, Boeing recently secured final FAA certifications for the 737 Max line, including the 737 Max 7 and 737 Max 10 variants. Additionally, the U.S. Navy awarded Boeing a contract to develop its next-generation fighter jet, signaling confidence in the company’s defense capabilities. These certifications and defense wins come as Boeing balances its commercial production hurdles and strives for operational excellence moving forward.