Boeing’s narrowbody operations have shown a major recovery, with the delivery of 447 of its 737 model aircraft in 2025 – nearly double the 265 units delivered during a crisis-stricken 2024.
The recovery was driven by a surge in the fourth quarter, where Boeing handed over 117 aircraft. This represents more than triple the 36 units delivered in the same quarter last year, a period defined by a 50-day strike and severe production constraints.
The 2025 results highlight Boeing’s success in stabilising its Renton, Washington, factory floor following a series of regulatory and quality-control hurdles.
Earlier in 2025, federal regulators raised the production ceiling on the 737 MAX from 38 to 42 aircraft per month, citing improvements in safety management systems and quality oversight.
Boeing made significant progress in delivering “parked” aircraft – jets built during previous pauses that required rework before they could be handed over to airlines.
In December alone, Boeing secured a massive commitment from Alaska Airlines for 105 737-10s, the largest variant of the MAX family, signalling renewed carrier confidence.
While the 447 deliveries mark a significant post-pandemic high for Boeing’s narrowbody programme, the company still faces stiff competition from Airbus. The European manufacturer’s A320neo family continued to lead the segment in total volume for 2025.
However, analysts note that Boeing’s trajectory is now at its most stable point since 2018. The average time from an aircraft’s first flight to final delivery fell to approximately 37 days in 2025, a sharp improvement from the 47-day average seen in 2024, which has significantly bolstered the company’s cash flow.
| Period | 737 Deliveries (2025) | 737 Deliveries (2024) | % Change |
| Fourth Quarter | 117 | 36 | +225% |
| Full Year | 447 | 265 | +68% |
Photo: Boeing
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg meets with 737 team members at the Seattle Delivery Center.
