A report published by Reuters on Tuesday claims that American Airlines is very close to signing a big contract for about 100 narrowbody aircraft, with Boeing and Airbus SE among the competitors. According to sources, Airbus is probably going to get a few more orders out of this transaction.

The agreement, which could comprise Airbus A321 and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, is anticipated to be revealed as early as next week during an investor meeting on March 4. The ultimate choice on the aircraft mix is still being made, though, as American Airlines is debating whether to incorporate Boeing’s next 737 MAX 10, even in spite of certification delays.

This development occurs in the midst of competition for Airbus production slots, as United Airlines, a rival airline, has already begun talks with Airbus on a possible large order to replace hundreds of MAX 10 aircraft that United Airlines had previously bought from Boeing.

In a meeting with staff last July, American Airlines‘ CEO, Robert Isom, underlined the need for new narrowbody jets beyond 2027. Reports of the airline in discussions with both Airbus and Boeing for this order first emerged last August. But after a January incident in which a cabin panel blew off an Alaska Airlines 737 MAX jet, creating a new crisis for Boeing, the plans for the airline industry in 2024 were disrupted.

Chief Financial Officer Devon May stated last month that American Airlines was in talks with Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer over the carrier’s goal of securing new aircraft for delivery after 2027. May emphasised that when negotiating, it is crucial to take into account current problems at Boeing.

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