Airbus Sees 480 Deliveries In 2010
Robert Wall/Paris wall@aviationweek.com 
Airbus is hopeful it can keep production rates relatively solid, with company chief executive officer for customers, John Leahy, suggesting 2010 could see around 480 deliveries, roughly last year's level and what's targeted for 2009.
The aircraft maker also makes clear it will show little flexibility in shifting 2009 deliveries.
Despite the hope of maintaining output, that doesn't mean Airbus isn't feeling the slow down. In the first quarter, Leahy says he saw around 22 sales campaigns, compared with around 100 during that period when the market was at its peak. There were a further eight VIP aircraft campaigns.
As it stands, Airbus says it remains overbooked for 2009 and 2010. In fact, Tom Williams, Airbus executive vice president for programs, notes that Airbus recently had to start looking at which airlines would not get an aircraft this year after a decision was made to reduce production rates for single-aisle aircraft to 34 units per month starting in October. The situation was eased, somewhat, by German carrier Blue Wings losing its operating license, although the carrier is trying to raise the funds to return and may then want the aircraft. Blue Wings had five Airbus deliveries this year planned and 10 next year.
Leahy says the downside risk on deliveries is about 10-15%, not the 30% some industry officials have suggested.
Airbus has set up a Watchtower Committee to review every aircraft delivery position, including financing. As it sees risk, it is engaging airlines about potential changes in taking the aircraft.
However, Leahy stresses there is little flexibility available for 2009 aircraft, since they are largely in build. Airline's will be required to take those aircraft, even if they would rather not, he indicates to financial analysts. Airbus is showing more flexibility in terms of 2010 deliveries.
That situation holds true also for the Airbus flagship A380. Airbus this year plans to buy 18 of the aircraft, but Leahy acknowledges the delivery situation for all is not assured. But while there me be some room for adjustments on later A380 slots, Leahy says any A380 aircraft scheduled for handover this year would be built and, if an airline isn't ready to take the asset, would have to be put in storage.
Photo credit: Airbus
