According to Reuters, on Oct. 7, UK-based consultancy Cirium announced that the Airbus A320 series has become the most delivered commercial aircraft in history. Following the recent delivery of an A320neo jet to Saudi Arabia's low-cost carrier Flynas, the total deliveries of the A320 series have reached 12,200 units, surpassing Boeing's 737 family.
This milestone marks a significant shift in the aviation industry, as the Boeing 737—the long-time leader in the narrow-body aircraft category—has now been overtaken by Airbus. The European manufacturer has already been leading in annual deliveries and continues to strengthen its market position by targeting the low-cost airline sector and expanding production facilities globally.
Airbus is currently growing production lines in the US and China to meet increasing demand.
The A320 program was launched in 1984, with its first flight in 1987. It was Airbus' first narrow-body aircraft and the first commercial jet to introduce "fly-by-wire" electronic control technology. Despite initial resistance from European unions and airlines, the A320 series eventually set the standard for narrow-body aircraft design. Today, its main production facilities are in Europe, with additional lines in China and the US.
In contrast, the Boeing 737 series, which debuted in the 1960s, had long been the benchmark for narrow-body aircraft. However, a series of fatal crashes involving the 737 MAX in 2018 and 2019 severely impacted Boeing's reputation and production capabilities, and the company is still recovering.
The demand for narrow-body jets remains strong, driven by the growth of the Asian economy and the rise of low-cost carriers. Combined, Airbus and Boeing have delivered more than 25,000 narrow-body aircraft to date.
Both manufacturers are currently evaluating future aircraft development plans. Representatives from Airbus and Boeing recently stated that neither company is likely to launch a new aircraft model until significant advancements are made in engine technology.
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