Qantas Airways is considering placing an order for approximately 20 wide-body aircraft from either Boeing or Airbus, according to sources familiar with the matter. The Australian flag carrier is evaluating options as part of its fleet renewal strategy.

The potential order comes as aircraft manufacturers see renewed activity in the aviation sector following the pandemic recovery. Qantas has not publicly confirmed the aircraft evaluation or provided details on timing for any potential purchase decision.

Meanwhile, European aircraft manufacturer Airbus reported delivering 81 commercial aircraft in May, marking a significant improvement in production output. The deliveries reflected easing of previous logistical challenges in China that had constrained the company's ability to complete aircraft handovers to customers.

The May delivery figure represents Airbus's continued efforts to meet strong demand for commercial aircraft as airlines worldwide expand and modernize their fleets. Chinese market conditions had previously created bottlenecks in Airbus's delivery schedule, affecting the manufacturer's ability to meet production targets.

Both developments highlight the ongoing recovery in the commercial aviation sector, with airlines investing in new aircraft while manufacturers work to fulfill accumulated orders and address supply chain challenges that emerged during the pandemic period.