Airbus comes out tops on deliveries

More planes: The logo of Airbus group is displayed in Toulouse. Aircraft deliveries are rising slightly and airlines are ordering more planes, showing that they are confident in the long-term outlook for air travel. — AFP

LONDON: Airbus SE cemented the title of world’s largest planemaker for the third straight year with 611 jetliner deliveries, though it’s on track to lose the contest with Boeing Co over orders.

The European manufacturer beat its own handover target by 11 planes, leaving its United States competitor in the dust. Jefferies estimates that Boeing, which is due to report year-end figures late yesterday, transferred 337 new aircraft to customers in 2021.