Boeing in Q3 2026: narrower loss, record backlog and 737-10 certified

A near-breakeven quarter

In the third quarter of 2026 Boeing posted revenue of $24.2 billion (+4%) and a net loss of $116 million, or -$0.26 per share versus -$7.14 a year earlier. Free cash flow turned positive at about $0.5 billion, despite roughly $0.7 billion paid under the settlement with the US Department of Justice.

Three segments, three trends

| Segment | Q3 2026 revenue | Operating result | |---|---|---| | Commercial Airplanes | $10.7bn (-3%) | -$697m | | Defense, Space & Security | $7.9bn (+15%) | +$492m | | Global Services | $5.6bn (+4%) | +$1.0bn |

The defence result includes a $252 million gain on the sale of HRL Laboratories. Services remain the most profitable segment, with an 18.3% margin.

Production and certification

Boeing delivered 161 commercial aircraft in the quarter (124 737s, 22 787s, 5 777s and 10 767s). The company says it is progressing towards a stabilised rate of 47 737s a month and is holding the 787 at 8 a month.

On certification, the 737-7 received an amended type certificate from the FAA in the third quarter, and the 737-10 was certified in October. Certification flight testing of the 777-9 continues, with first delivery still targeted for 2027.

A record backlog

The total backlog reached $745.4 billion, including $611.8 billion for commercial aircraft and more than 6,300 airplanes. The US Navy F/A-XX contract, awarded to Boeing at the end of September, is not yet included pending completion of the source selection review.

Balance sheet

Boeing holds $20.7 billion in cash and marketable securities, against consolidated debt of $45.9 billion.

Origin and rationale

Origin: Boeing's official Q3 2026 results press release (27 October 2026). Why this story: the week's main financial release from a major manufacturer. Written by aerospace.fr, sources accessed on 2 November 2026.