Boeing says its operations are becoming more stable as it works through the production and supply chain constraints that have contributed to the global aircraft shortage.
The manufacturer delivered 171 commercial aircraft during the quarter. However, its commercial backlog still stands at more than 6 200 aircraft, valued at a US$597 billion (R10 trillion).
Earlier this year, IATA Director General Willie Walsh said the global shortage of commercial aircraft was likely to continue to place pressure on airlines’ operating costs, leading to rising airfares.
Speaking during Boeing's second-quarter earnings call, President and CEO Kelly Ortberg said the company made the decision to temporarily slow production systems for several days in April to allow portions of the supply chain to recover.
While acknowledging that challenges remained, Ortberg said the company had built positive momentum during the first half of the year.
"We know there's more work to do and remain clear-eyed about managing the risk in front of us, but the momentum that we built in the first half of this year is setting us up for more dependable performance and more capability for our customers.
"We are strengthening the trust with our supply chain. Through increased transparency and strong demonstrated performance, this positions us to deliver higher volumes and respond quickly when challenges arise."
He added that customers and suppliers were showing renewed confidence in the manufacturer's ability to deliver.
