Airbus Soars to New Heights: FY 2023 Financial Triumph and Bold 2024 Outlook

Airbus SE has unveiled its full-year 2023 financial achievements, marking a year of significant progress and laying out an ambitious path for 2024. With its headquarters in Amsterdam, the aerospace giant announced on February 15, 2024, a remarkable year characterized by robust order intake across all sectors, achieving its 2023 guidance, and setting strategic goals for the coming year.

The company's CEO, Guillaume Faury, highlighted the remarkable achievement of delivering on commitments amid the complexities of the current operating environment. Airbus' dedication to investing in its global industrial system and its journey towards transformation and decarbonisation is evident. The dividend proposals for 2023, including a €1.80 per share dividend and a €1.00 special dividend, reflect the strong financial performance and confidence in the company's growth trajectory and financial health.

Airbus reported a delivery of 735 commercial aircraft in 2023, with revenues reaching €65.4 billion and an EBIT Adjusted of €5.8 billion. This achievement is backed by a substantial order backlog, totaling 8,598 commercial aircraft by the year's end. The company's diversified business, including Airbus Helicopters and Airbus Defence and Space, also saw a significant order intake, showcasing Airbus' comprehensive strength across the aerospace sector.

The financial results reveal a company on the ascent, with consolidated revenues up by 11% from the previous year and a stable delivery of 346 helicopters. Airbus Defence and Space's revenues also saw a 2% increase, driven by Military Air Systems and Connected Intelligence.

Looking ahead to 2024, Airbus sets an ambitious target of delivering around 800 commercial aircraft, aiming for an EBIT Adjusted between €6.5 billion and €7.0 billion, and a free cash flow before customer financing of approximately €4.0 billion. These targets are set against a backdrop of assumed stability in the global economy, air traffic, the supply chain, and the company's internal operations.

The announcement also includes strategic developments in production, such as the A220 ramp-up and the progression of the A320 Family programme towards a monthly production rate of 75 aircraft by 2026. The introduction of the A321XLR and advancements in widebody aircraft production underscore Airbus' commitment to innovation and efficiency.

This financial disclosure not only underscores Airbus' resilience and strategic foresight but also signals a confident step towards future growth. The company's strong financial health, coupled with ambitious targets for 2024, positions Airbus as a leader in the aerospace industry, ready to meet the demands of a dynamic global market. As Airbus continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the aerospace sector, its financial success story serves as a testament to the company's robust strategy and unwavering commitment to excellence.