Boeing is showing signs of recovery in early 2025, reporting better-than-expected results for the first quarter. The improvement is largely due to a rise in aircraft deliveries, especially the 737 model.
The American aerospace giant posted $19.4 billion (€17.1 billion) in revenue, marking an 18% rise compared to the first quarter of 2024. Operating profit reached $461 million (€405.8 million), a big turnaround from the $350 million loss reported last year.
Boeing’s operating margins also turned positive, reaching 2.4% versus -0.5% in the same period last year. Net loss for the quarter dropped sharply to just $31 million (€27.3 million), compared to a whopping $355 million (€312.4 million) in Q1 2024.
However, one area of concern remains: cash flow. Operating cash flow dipped to $1.6 billion (€1.4 billion), a steep fall from $3.4 billion (€3 billion) recorded in the previous year. This may signal that while sales are improving, Boeing still faces challenges managing costs and capital.
Aircraft Deliveries See Notable Growth
A big factor behind Boeing’s improved performance is the sharp increase in jet deliveries. The company delivered 105 units of its popular 737 aircraft in the first quarter of 2025. That’s a huge leap from 67 deliveries in Q1 2024.
Other models also saw gains. Boeing delivered five 767 aircraft (up from three), and seven 777 jet (compared to none in the same quarter last year). The 787 model held steady with 13 deliveries.
This jump in deliveries gave Boeing a boost on the stock market. The company’s shares climbed 5.7% on the New York Stock Exchange during Wednesday afternoon trading.
Production Goals Stay on Track
Boeing has reassured investors and customers that it is on track to meet its production goal of 38 737 jets per month by the end of the year. This target had been under scrutiny due to past delays and quality issues.
The company has faced several setbacks in recent years. These include safety concerns, grounded aircraft, and regulatory investigations. Despite this, the new report suggests that Boeing is making progress in restoring smooth operations.
While the road to full recovery is long, this quarter’s results show that Boeing is headed in the right direction.
Geopolitical Risks Still Loom Large
While the numbers are promising, Boeing is not out of the woods yet. One of the biggest challenges comes from growing tensions between the United States and China.
Trade disputes have led to tariffs that may affect Boeing’s future exports. The U.S. has imposed tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese goods, and China has responded with tariffs as high as 125% on American products.
As a result, several jets originally meant for Chinese airlines have reportedly been redirected to the U.S., according to flight tracking data. This could hurt Boeing’s global sales, especially for popular models like the 737 Max.
Tariffs raise prices, making it harder for international airlines to buy U.S.-made planes. Delays in delivery and shrinking order books may follow if trade tensions don’t ease.
Recovery Still in Progress
Boeing’s leadership has emphasized the importance of stability. Executives say that while Q1 results are encouraging, the company is still in a rebuilding phase. Focus remains on fixing supply chains, improving quality, and restoring customer trust.
The aerospace industry, still recovering from the impact of COVID-19, is now navigating inflation, global conflicts, and trade issues. Boeing’s rebound, though fragile, is a key indicator for the sector.
Analysts say that continued progress on delivery goals and smoother relations with trade partners could further strengthen Boeing’s position.
In the months ahead, Boeing will need to balance its growing momentum with caution. If it can maintain output, resolve technical issues, and manage international risks, it may finally leave its troubled past behind.