Airbus, the European aerospace giant, anticipates a 7% increase in the delivery of commercial aircraft by 2025, reaching approximately 820 units. However, the company is also facing short-term production pressures, which have caused delays in some of its key projects, including the new A350 Freighter.
Financial Results and Challenges in Space Sector
Financially, Airbus reported an adjusted operating income of 5.35 billion euros in 2024, reflecting an 8% decrease compared to the previous year, though in line with market expectations. The company also recorded annual revenues of 69.23 billion euros, with 24.72 billion generated in the last quarter of the year.
A critical point was the additional charge of 300 million euros in its Space division, highlighting persistent issues in that sector. Additionally, Airbus has flagged risks in the future of the A400M military aircraft, whose low demand continues to pose a challenge.
Market Impact and Airbus Shares
Despite reaching a record in its stock price, Airbus experienced a 3% drop in the market following the announcement of these results. Analysts attributed the decline to the impact of additional costs in the space segment and an EBIT slightly below expectations.
→ Airbus Delays the Development of Hydrogen-Powered Commercial Aircraft
Supply Chain Issues and Their Impact on Production
One of the main obstacles for Airbus has been disruptions in the supply chain, currently affecting the production of the A350 and A220. Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury noted that issues with Spirit AeroSystems have created difficulties in accelerating the manufacturing of these models.
Nevertheless, the company remains confident in achieving its medium-term production goals. RBC analysts stated that “confidence in future production levels of commercial programs should continue to grow.”
A350 Freighter Delay and Industrial Expansion
One of the most significant announcements was the confirmation of the delay in the production of the A350 Freighter. Initially planned for 2026, its launch has now been postponed to the second half of 2027.
On the other hand, Airbus continues its industrial expansion with the integration of two Spirit AeroSystems plants that supply structural parts for the A350 and A220 models. The acquisition of a third plant in Scotland is also being considered if no alternative buyer is found.
The company expects this operation to have a “broadly neutral” impact on its operating income, although it could affect free cash flow by “hundreds of millions of euros.”
Financial Forecast and Dividends for 2025
For 2025, Airbus anticipates growth in its adjusted operating income, projecting around 7 billion euros. This excludes any impact from potential trade tariffs but considers the integration of Spirit AeroSystems, suggesting that the acquisition is close to being finalized.
In terms of cash flow, the company reported 4.46 billion euros in 2024 and expects to reach approximately 4.5 billion in 2025. Additionally, Airbus has announced an annual dividend of 2 euros per share, reflecting an 11% increase compared to the previous year, along with a special dividend of 1 euro per share for 2025, maintaining the 2024 level.
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