Airbus aims for record deliveries despite disappointing quarter

What happened: Airbus said third quarter revenues dipped as it delivered fewer planes, but it kept its target of delivering a record number of commercial aircraft this year. Key numbers: 196 aircraft delivered in the quarter to end September, versus 201 a year earlier. Revenue fell 2 percent to 17.5 billion euros. Why it matters: Deliveries matter because Airbus and Boeing get paid most of the agreed price when planes are handed over. The head of Airbus's commercial aircraft unit said he was confident the annual target can be met as most aircraft are in final assembly.

Airbus said third quarter revenues dipped as it delivered fewer planes, but it kept its target of delivering a record number of commercial aircraft this year.

Deliveries matter because Airbus and Boeing get paid most of the agreed price when planes are handed over. The head of Airbus's commercial aircraft unit said he was confident the annual target can be met as most aircraft are in final assembly.