Boeing, Airbus Say Narrowbody Launch Delayed

At the ISTAT Prague conference, Boeing and Airbus executives downplayed speculation of imminent next‑generation narrowbody launches, with Boeing marketing chief Darren Hulst saying a 737 successor is "some way off" and Airbus warning the roughly 25–30% efficiency gains required would "take a bit of time." Both manufacturers said they are prioritizing incremental improvements—fuel‑efficiency upgrades, advanced cockpit systems and sustainable aviation fuel compatibility—while completing multiple certification‑heavy projects instead of committing to costly new designs. Boeing cited about $50 billion in debt and pending certifications, including two 737 MAX variants, the 777‑9/777X family and a 777 freighter, as constraints on timing. Analysts and company officials said a new narrowbody remains attractive only with a roughly 25–30% efficiency step, making a launch more likely later this decade rather than immediately. Supply‑chain pressures are reportedly easing for Boeing but continue to affect Airbus (notably seats and some engines), even as demand for updated 737 and A320‑family models remains strong.