Morgan Stanley analyst Heidi Wood stated she believes Airbus' A320neo aircraft will compel Boeing to reveal plans for a new narrowbody by June. According to the analyst: "Airbus could announce between 500-1,000 new [A320neo] orders by the Paris Air Show [in Jun-2011], which adds pressure for [Boeing] to come up with a new 737 replacement."
"We believe [Boeing] could announce a new narrowbody by Paris Air show," Ms Wood said adding re-engining "makes less sense, in our view".
Boeing stated it aims to finalise its plans for a new narrowbody by the end of 2011 with entry into service slated for 2019 or 2020. Chairman, President and CEO, Jim McNerney, stated he did not see a compelling case for re-engining.
Boeing's shares managed a small gain on Thursday in the aftermath of its 4Q2010 and full-year earnings report the day prior, with analyst commentary focusing on B787 and B747-8 programme outlooks and the US manufacturer's narrowbody plans.
See related reports:
- Aircraft orders and deliveries review 2010 and 2011 outlook: Airbus, Boeing, Embraer and regionals
- Aircraft deliveries to accelerate in 2011. Led by Ryanair, Air China and Turkish Airlines
JP Morgan maintained its "overweight" rating and USD83 price target on the stock, while Citigroup lowered its price target for Boeing from USD85 to USD84, but maintained its "buy" rating.
Shares in rival Airbus parent EADS surged 4% yesterday.
Selected original equipment manufacturers' share price movements: (% change): 27-Jan-2011
