Boeing Posts Wider Loss Despite 737 Max Production Gains

Q3 Earnings Snapshot: Losses Deepen
737 Max Output Ramps Up Amid Recovery Push
777X Delay Drags Down Financials
CEO’s Message: Cautious Optimism Ahead
Wall Street Reacts to Mixed Signals
Sources

Q3 Earnings Snapshot: Losses Deepen

Boeing reported a larger-than-expected quarterly loss on Wednesday, as ongoing development setbacks—particularly with its next-generation 777X jet—continued to weigh on the aerospace giant’s bottom line.

For the third quarter of 2025, Boeing posted a net loss of $1.2 billion, or $2.01 per share, compared to a $941 million loss in the same period last year. Revenue rose modestly to $18.6 billion, reflecting stronger deliveries of its best-selling aircraft—but not enough to offset ballooning costs tied to delayed programs.

737 Max Output Ramps Up Amid Recovery Push

Despite the red ink, Boeing made tangible progress on its most critical recovery lever: the 737 Max. The company increased production to 38 jets per month and reaffirmed its target of reaching 50 per month by late 2026.

“We’re seeing real momentum in stabilizing our core commercial business,” said CEO Dave Calhoun during an earnings call. “The 737 Max remains the backbone of our near-term turnaround.”

The improved output helped Boeing deliver 112 commercial airplanes in Q3—a 15% increase year-over-year—and secure new orders from major carriers, including Korean Air’s recent commitment to purchase 103 Boeing planes as part of a U.S.-South Korea trade framework.

777X Delay Drags Down Financials

However, Boeing’s long-range 777X program continues to stumble. Originally slated for entry into service in 2023, the wide-body jet has faced repeated certification hurdles and supply chain bottlenecks. On Wednesday, the company confirmed yet another delay—now targeting a 2027 debut.

This latest postponement triggered a $1.5 billion charge in the quarter, directly contributing to the widened loss. Analysts warn that each delay erodes customer confidence and opens the door for Airbus to capture more of the lucrative long-haul market.

CEO’s Message: Cautious Optimism Ahead

Calhoun struck a cautiously optimistic tone, emphasizing that Boeing is prioritizing quality over speed. “We will not rush certification or compromise safety,” he insisted. “Our focus is on building trust—plane by plane.”

The company also highlighted progress in resolving quality control issues flagged by the FAA, including fixes to fuselage gaps and wiring problems that had grounded dozens of already-built Max jets.

Wall Street Reacts to Mixed Signals

Investors responded with skepticism. Boeing shares fell nearly 3% in after-hours trading despite the uptick in deliveries. Many analysts remain wary of execution risk.

“The 737 Max story is improving, but the 777X is becoming a black hole,” said Morgan Stanley analyst Kristine Liwag. “Until Boeing proves it can manage complex new programs, the stock will struggle to sustain rallies.”