Airbus titanium demand recovery to 2027

Airbus

Airbus titanium demand recovery to 2027 now shapes near-term procurement. The airframer signaled lower 2026 titanium consumption as inventories remain high. However, Airbus urged suppliers to avoid aggressive destocking ahead of the 2027 rebound.

Inventory overhang extends the reset

Airbus titanium demand recovery to 2027 reflects 2024 stock build and 2025 parts shortages. Engines, fuselage sections, and other critical items constrained consumption. Therefore, Airbus plans another year of inventory adjustment in 2026, with no volumes disclosed.

Suppliers face carrying costs as finished parts cannot be reallocated. Meanwhile, Airbus warned that over-correction could “hit hard” when demand returns. The message supports measured releases of sponge, mill products, and finished forgings.

Backloaded build, Spirit deal, and scrap strategy

Airbus titanium demand recovery to 2027 aligns with a backloaded 2025 build profile. The company expects engine deliveries to improve by year-end, unlocking A320neo gliders. In parallel, Airbus aims to close its Spirit AeroSystems acquisition “extremely soon” to stabilize A220 and A350 parts.

Procurement signals still show an 18–24 month lag from metal to aircraft. As a result, upstream producers question timing versus 2027 needs. Even so, Airbus appears focused on running down existing stocks before re-ramping buys.

Airbus also tightens circularity by lifting scrap revert above 50% by 2028. This matters because the EU exports aerospace-grade titanium scrap to the US. Retaining revert should enhance European melt security and reduce primary exposure.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Airbus’ stance extends the titanium market’s mid-cycle pause but reduces whiplash risk. Watch order books for long-lead forgings and plate in late 2025. A coordinated, shallow destock today may price-support sponge and mill inputs into the 2027 upcycle.