Airbus narrows delivery gap while addressing A330 quality checks

Airbus delivered as many as 72 aircraft in September, nearly matching 73 a year earlier and easing the impact of an industrial quality issue. The manufacturer is also responding to A330 quality checks affecting aircraft delivered between January 2021 and July 2026, after Airbus advised airlines to inspect A330 jets for loose objects when a tool was found in a horizontal tailplane earlier this year. Airbus declined to confirm a provisional monthly delivery total ahead of an industrial bulletin due on 8 October, when the tracked deliveries may need updating beyond analysts’ estimates in the mid-to-high 60s. Airbus Commercial chief executive Lars Wagner said he is very confident of meeting a target of around 870 jets. Airbus also offered concessions to keep A321neo deliveries moving despite shorter maintenance intervals and cost increases.