Airbus launches A350 freighter as it ramps up top selling A320

Airbus has launched its much anticipated A350 freighter as it ramps up production of its top-selling A320 with Qatar Airways a major target for the freighter. The news comes as Airbus reports that its consolidated revenue for the first half of 2021 increased 30 percent year-on-year to €24.6 billion (US$29.16) from €18.9 billion, mainly reflecting the higher number of commercial aircraft deliveries compared to H1 2020. Airbus said that a total of 297 commercial aircraft were delivered (H1 2020: 196 aircraft), comprising 21 A220s, 237 A320 Family, 7 A330s, 30 A350s and 2 A380s. Revenues generated by Airbus’ commercial aircraft activities increased 42 percent, largely reflecting the increased deliveries. Airbus Helicopters delivered 115 units (H1 2020: 104 units) with revenues up 11 percent reflecting growth in services and higher volume in civil helicopters, while revenues at Airbus Defence and Space were broadly stable compared to a year earlier, with two A400M military airlifters delivered in H1 2021. READ: Three new pieces of MH370 debris revealed?  Airbus Chief Executive Officer Guillaume Faury said “these half-year results reflect the commercial aircraft deliveries, our focus on cost containment and competitiveness, and the good performance in Helicopters and Defence and Space. "Although the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the numerous actions taken by the teams have delivered a strong H1 performance. This enables us to raise our 2021 guidance although we continue to face an unpredictable environment. “We are now working to secure the A320 Family ramp up while transforming the industrial setup. Furthermore and following Board approval, we are enhancing our product line with an A350 freighter derivative, responding to customer feedback for increased competition and efficiency in this market segment.” Airbus said that gross commercial aircraft orders totaled 165 (H1 2020: 365 aircraft) with net orders of 38 aircraft after cancellations (H1 2020: 298 aircraft). The order backlog was 6,925 commercial aircraft on 30 June 2021. Airbus Helicopters booked 123 net orders (H1 2020: 75 units), including 10 helicopters of the Super Puma Family. Airbus Defence and Space’s order intake by value was €3.5 billion (H1 2020: €5.6 billion). Consolidated EBIT (reported) amounted to €2,727 million (H1 2020: € -1,559 million). As the basis for its 2021 guidance, Airbus said it assumes no further disruptions to the world economy, air traffic, the Company’s internal operations, and its ability to deliver products and services. It targets to achieve 600 commercial aircraft deliveries with EBIT Adjusted of €4 billion with Free Cash Flow before M&A and Customer Financing of €2 billion.