Boeing reports delays in 787 Dreamliner deliveries due to certification holds on new premium seats and engine supply shortages. The company maintains its target of 90-100 aircraft deliveries for 2026 despite these hurdles.
Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg stated during an April 22 briefing that FAA certification delays for premium seat configurations are blocking handovers of completed jets. Factory production continues unaffected, with Charleston output at eight planes monthly, rising to ten later this year.
A backlog of 787s awaits seat approvals, described by Ortberg as needing to “get the pig through the python.” Lufthansa faces specific impacts, with 13 ready 787s held up, including six fitted with new Allegris seats pending FAA nod.
Engine deliveries proved challenging in Q1, though a recovery plan supports the ramp-up. Boeing delivered 15 787s in the quarter amid overall commercial jet deliveries of 143, the highest since 2019.
These disruptions highlight 787 vulnerability without inventory buffers, unlike the 737, but underscore production gains with 25% fewer rework hours. Resolving seats and engines will stabilize cash flow and airline fleet plans amid rising widebody demand.
American Airlines recently took two premium-heavy 787-9s after a year delay, featuring 51 Flagship Suite seats to boost long-haul yields.