Peter Barrett, chief executive of SMBC Aviation, publicly urged Airbus and other aircraft manufacturers to address persistent supply chain shortcomings and to restore reliable delivery schedules.
Speaking at the Airline Economics conference on Monday, Barrett said the industry now needs a return to greater predictability in aircraft deliveries after what he described as six years of disruption. He directed a pointed comment at the newly appointed head of Airbus' jet division, who was appearing at the conference for the first time.
"I think delivery: I’ve said this to him privately and I’m happy to say it publicly," Barrett said, referring to that new executive. He acknowledged the strain caused by the COVID period but emphasized that airlines and lessors require a degree of certainty around delivery timing.
Barrett indicated that both Airbus and Boeing have made progress toward resolving production and supply challenges but added that they are "not where they need to be." He extended the same assessment to engine manufacturers, suggesting the broader supplier base also has work to do to meet market expectations.
His remarks underscore continuing tensions between aircraft lessors, carriers, and original equipment manufacturers as the industry seeks to normalize production and delivery flows. For leasing firms such as SMBC Aviation, predictable handover schedules are central to fleet planning, financing and contract commitments.
Context and implications
Barrett’s public remarks at a prominent industry gathering signal pressure from the leasing community for manufacturers and suppliers to accelerate resolution of logistical and production issues. While he noted progress by prime airframers, his assessment that they remain short of requirements signals lingering operational and planning risks across aviation stakeholders.
The comments also place attention on engine makers, which Barrett said face similar shortfalls in meeting expectations.