Boeing posts strongest first-half deliveries since 2018

• Boeing is increasing 737 MAX production from 42 to 47 jets per month, with deliveries expected to rise further in the second half of 2026
• The company booked 113 net new orders in June (121 orders minus 8 cancellations) and has received 408 total orders through June after cancellations and conversions
• The 737 MAX has now surpassed the previous-generation 737 NG as Boeing's best-selling model with 7,206 total orders versus 7,159 for the NG

Boeing Posts Strongest First-Half Deliveries Since 2018

Key Performance Metrics:

Boeing delivered 64 jetliners in June 2026, up from 60 in May and matching June 2025 levels. For the first half of 2026, the company delivered 314 aircraft—a 12% year-over-year increase and the highest first-half total since 2018.

Delivery Breakdown:

June deliveries included 42 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, 13 787 Dreamliners, three 777 freighters, and five 767s (three designated for KC-46 tanker conversion). Notably, five 787 deliveries went to startup airline Riyadh Air after resolving seat certification delays.

Competitive Position:

Despite the improvement, Boeing trails European rival Airbus, which delivered 351 aircraft in the first half. Boeing is ramping up production of its best-selling 737 MAX from 42 to 47 units monthly, with deliveries expected to accelerate in the second half.

Order Activity:

Boeing secured 121 new orders in June with eight cancellations, netting 113 orders for the month. Year-to-date through June, the company has booked 408 net orders after cancellations and conversions. The 737 MAX reached a milestone with 7,206 total orders, surpassing the previous-generation 737 Next Generation's 7,159 orders.

Notable Transactions:

Canadian airline WestJet canceled six 737 orders, while Aviation Capital Group simultaneously ordered six 737s for lease to WestJet.

Market Implications:

The improved delivery pace signals Boeing's operational recovery and production stabilization. However, continued competition with Airbus and the need to execute on planned production increases remain critical factors for investors monitoring the aerospace sector.