Core Viewpoint - Despite a year-on-year decline in new aircraft deliveries in the first half of the year, Airbus continues to secure significant new aircraft orders from various airlines and leasing companies, leading to an increase in backlog orders. Addressing supply chain challenges through further vertical integration is crucial for achieving production capacity goals [1][7]. Group 1: New Orders - On July 24, Airbus signed a procurement agreement with Avolon for 90 aircraft, including 15 A330neo and 75 A321neo, raising Avolon's total orders to 79 A330neo and 264 A321neo [2]. - Malaysia Airlines ordered 20 A330-900 aircraft, increasing its A330neo fleet to 40 units, with four already delivered [3]. - AirAsia signed a memorandum for 50 firm orders and 20 options for A321XLR aircraft, valued at $12.25 billion, as part of its transformation into a low-cost network airline [4]. Group 2: Market Trends and Company Strategies - Avolon's CEO expressed confidence in long-term demand for new aircraft, highlighting the attractiveness of A321neo and A330neo models amid the aviation industry's growth trends [2][3]. - AirAsia aims to achieve a passenger capacity of 150 million by 2030, with plans to reform its capacity structure by utilizing longer-range narrow-body aircraft [4][5]. - AirAsia is reportedly considering an additional order of up to 150 new aircraft, potentially including the A220 series [6]. Group 3: Supply Chain and Production Capacity - Airbus delivered 306 commercial aircraft in the first half of the year, a 5.56% decline compared to the same period in 2024, while securing over 400 net orders [7]. - Supply chain issues continue to impact delivery schedules, with executives acknowledging challenges related to suppliers like Spirit AeroSystems and engine manufacturers [7][8]. - Airbus aims to increase narrow-body aircraft production capacity to 75 units per month by 2027, with a new assembly line in Tianjin nearing completion [8][9]. Group 4: Localized Production Efforts - Airbus has initiated a new A321 fuselage system assembly project in collaboration with AVIC Xi'an Aircraft Industry Group, enhancing local production capabilities [9][10]. - The new assembly line in Tianjin is expected to focus on A321 production, with 70% of the output projected to be A321 models [8][10].

Industry Overview - The increasing complexity and luxury of first- and business-class cabins, which require regulatory approval, are causing delays in new airplane deliveries from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus [2][4]. - Both Boeing and Airbus are experiencing significant hold-ups due to the certification processes for new seat designs and cabin features, which are essential for meeting customer demands for enhanced comfort [3][5]. Company-Specific Insights - Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg highlighted that the delivery of 787 Dreamliners is being delayed due to issues with seat installations, which occur late in the assembly process [3]. - Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury confirmed similar delays, stating that the certification of seats and cabin components is impacting the timely delivery of aircraft [4][5]. - Delta Air Lines reported that a significant portion of its revenue now comes from premium seats, indicating a shift in consumer preference towards luxury travel post-COVID-19 [13]. Market Dynamics - The demand for premium seating is driving airlines to invest in more luxurious cabin designs, which can cost in the low six digits per seat, comparable to luxury cars [12]. - Airlines are adapting to new trends, with companies like Singapore Airlines and American Airlines planning to introduce upgraded seating options on long-haul flights [14]. - The competitive landscape is intensifying as airlines globally, including Qantas and JetBlue, strive to enhance their premium offerings to attract high-paying customers [13][14].