Boeing’s recovery momentum strengthens as 2026 delivery ramp-up sets stage for MRO surge
By MRO Today Contributor
Boeing is sending strong signals of confidence as it moves toward the end of 2025, positioning 2026 as a year of renewed momentum for its commercial aircraft programmes, and, critically, for the global MRO ecosystem that depends on stable OEM output. Speaking at a UBS conference, Boeing CFO Jay Malave said deliveries of both the 737 and 787 families are set to rise next year, with further acceleration expected in 2026. The market responded instantly, pushing Boeing’s stock up more than 10% as investors registered the first clear signs of long-term operational stability after years of volatility.
For the aviation aftermarket, this shift is especially significant. Increased aircraft deliveries, particularly of narrowbodies like the 737 MAX and widebodies like the 787 Dreamliner, directly expand the future maintenance pipeline, from component support and PBH contracts to base checks, engine overhauls, composite repairs, interiors, and avionics upgrades. The OEM’s return to scaled production also stabilises the supply chain, enabling parts suppliers and MROs to plan capacity and workforce allocations with more confidence.
Certification of the 737-10
One of the critical milestones ahead is the expected 2026 certification of the 737-10, the largest variant of the MAX family. The aircraft has been years behind schedule, but once certified, it will provide operators with a higher-capacity option and will open a new revenue stream for MROs in fleet induction, spares provisioning, tooling, and engineering support. Many operators have already factored the -10 into their long-term network strategies; its entry into service will trigger demand for new maintenance capabilities, software updates, and parts pooling agreements across Asia, the Middle East, and North America.
Improving cash flow
Malave noted that Boeing expects positive free cash flow in the low single-digit billions next year, with productivity improvements boosting cash margins through 2030. For the aftermarket, this suggests greater stability in Boeing’s support programmes with timely dispatch of technical documentation and service bulletins, more predictable component availability and improved turnaround times for OEM-led repairs.
This matters because the OEM’s own internal bottlenecks over the last four years have often cascaded down to airlines and independent MROs, creating delays, shortages, and cost overruns.
Post-Crisis momentum
Boeing has been rebuilding its reputation after several challenging years, including heightened scrutiny following the January 2024 737 MAX door-plug incident. CEO Kelly Ortberg’s July announcement of reduced quarterly losses and improving business fundamentals signalled that the internal reform efforts are beginning to take hold. October’s strong delivery numbers, the best pace since 2018, further underscored that the company may finally be turning the corner.
FAA’s easing of restrictions on 737 MAX and 787 deliveries has also removed a major operational choke point. With Boeing now allowed to sign off on certain aircraft before customer delivery, the production system is beginning to flow more smoothly, giving operators and leasing companies better visibility and confidence.
Global MRO to gain
If Boeing executes on its 2026 ramp-up, the ripple effects for the MRO industry will be substantial as the expanded fleet growth will increase long-term maintenance volume. More predictable production will help stabilise supply chains for critical parts.
787 and 737 MAX induction waves will drive short-term engineering and modification demand, and engine MRO growth, particularly for LEAP-1B and GEnx, will accelerate as flight hours rise.
Component shops and interiors specialists will also see stronger demand for repair, overhaul, and retrofit programmes.
For MROs planning capacity, workforce recruitment, or new tooling investments, Boeing’s message is clear, the slowdown phase is ending, and the next cycle of fleet expansion and maintenance demand is on the horizon.
