Boeing Reports Positive Cash Flow for First Time Since 2023, but Takes $4.9 Billion Hit Over 777X Delays
Boeing reports its first positive cash flow since 2023, boosted by higher aircraft deliveries. However, the aerospace giant faces a $4.9 billion charge due to further 777X delays and continued challenges in certification and production.
Boeing Returns to Positive Cash Flow After Two Years, Takes $4.9 Billion Hit on 777X Delays
Almost losing those cash flows two years was the nice launch of jet deliveries! However, the aerospace behemoth had to take a charge of $4.9 billion because of further 777X delays.
According to Boeing, the company is on pace for the highest number of deliveries since 2018 — a recovery crucial after years of upheaval caused by safety issues, pandemic disruptions, and manufacturing setbacks.
Ortblurg stated that ever since August 2024 he had been focusing on reliability, quality, and safety for all Boeing operations. "While there’s still work to do on our development and certification programs, we’re seeing positive signs across our business," Ortberg said in an internal note.
More Problems Caused by the 777X Delay
Already flown almost six years ago and pushed through delays, the 777X delivery is set now for 2027 — so much so that a non-cash charge is triggered. Despite a chilled-out year with bad news, Boeing's third-quarter revenue beat analyst estimates, in that it rose 30% year-on-year to $23.27 billion against $21.97 billion.
Financial Highlights (Q3 2025)
Revenue: $23.27B vs. $17.84B (Q3 2024)
Loss per share (adjusted): $7.47 vs. $4.59 expected
Free cash flow: +$238M (first positive since 2023)
Although the net earnings revealed a loss of $4.78B, the result is clearly an improvement from last year's loss of $5.76B.
Increased Deliveries and Regulatory Progress
Boeing delivered 440 airplanes from January to September 2025, compared with 291 in the same period in 2024. Also, the FAA has been pleasant enough to lift the ceiling on the production of Boeing 737 Max, raising the permitted rate of production from 31 to 42 aircraft a month.
The FAA has further permitted Boeing's final sign-off on certain jets, indicative of an enhanced confidence in its manufacturing processes.
Segment Performance
Commercial Airplane: $11.09 billion revenue (+49% YoY)
Defense Division: $6.9 billion revenue (+25% YoY)
Global Services: $5.4 billion revenue (+10% YoY)
Boeing still faces problems with delays on Max 7, Max 10, and 777X programs, as well as a strike involving 3,200 defense-unit workers.
Ortberg said that the company is “steadily rebuilding trust” and remains committed to meeting certification requirements and regaining its position as an aviation manufacturer.
