Airbus CEO: China’s Comac Could Challenge Boeing-Airbus Duopoly

Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury has acknowledged China’s Comac as a potential disruptor to the long-standing Boeing-Airbus duopoly in commercial aircraft manufacturing.

Speaking at a press conference after announcing Airbus’ 2024 financial results, Faury stated that the industry could shift “from a duopoly to a potential triopoly” as Comac ramps up production of its C919 jet—a direct competitor to the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 Max.

Faury emphasized that Comac has “privileged access” to China’s market, which represents 20% of global aircraft demand. This could provide the manufacturer with an advantage in scaling production and eventually expanding exports when its aircraft gain regulatory approvals.

Currently, 13 Comac C919s are in service, operated by Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern, with over 1,000 orders pending. However, the C919 has yet to receive certification from US and European regulators.

Meanwhile, Airbus is expanding its own presence in China, planning to increase A320-family production with a second final assembly line at its Tianjin facility, expected to launch this year.

Airbus reported €69.2 billion ($72.2 billion) in revenue for 2024, a 6% increase, and aims to deliver 820 commercial aircraft in 2025.

Despite strong financial performance, Airbus faced €566 million in losses in its defense and space division, largely due to cost overruns in space programs. Faury indicated consolidation talks with Thales and Leonardo to strengthen Europe’s space sector.

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