Boeing Stock Slips Despite Big Dubai Airshow Orders — Here’s What Traders Should Really Watch
Boeing landed major aircraft orders at the Dubai Airshow this week, including new commitments for the 777X and 787 Dreamliner. But the stock still closed lower, a sign that investors are focused on something far more important than order announcements: the Boeing cash flow outlook.
Big Orders, Weak Stock Reaction
Boeing shares dipped again, closing near $189 despite headline wins:
- Gulf Air finalized an order for 15 Dreamliners.
- Emirates added 65 Boeing 777X jets to its massive backlog.
These orders bring Boeing’s 777X backlog to roughly 630 planes. Yet the muted response reflects a market that cares less about future demand and more about execution today — especially the Boeing cash flow outlook.
Execution, Not Demand, Is the Problem
Boeing has more than 6,500 unfilled orders, indicating strong demand. What investors really need is proof that the company can:
- deliver aircraft consistently,
- increase the output of the 737 MAX and 787,
- and strengthen the Boeing cash flow outlook.
The 777X remains a sticking point. First flown in 2020, certification may not arrive until 2027, creating years of cost overruns and delaying cash generation that investors have been waiting for since before the pandemic.
Downgraded Free Cash Flow Estimates
Fresh analysis has slashed the expected 2026 free cash flow from $5 billion to just $2.5 billion. That’s a major reason the stock is down even as new orders roll in. Big commitments don’t help the stock when the Boeing cash flow outlook is deteriorating.
Some analysts—particularly at UBS—still believe Boeing can generate $9 billion in free cash flow in 2027 and up to $18 billion by 2029. But until production stabilizes, confidence remains fragile.
Trading Outlook for Boeing
Short-Term Bearish Setup
- Weak reaction to positive news is a bearish signal.
- Resistance at $195–$200 remains firm.
- A break below $185 could open a slide toward $178–$180.
Short-Term Bullish Trigger
- Any positive update on MAX or 787 production ramp.
- Concrete progress on 777X certification.
- Improved Boeing cash flow outlook guidance.
Swing Trader View (1–3 Months)
Expect volatility around every production headline or FAA update. The stock behaves like a “show me” story — traders react to execution, not promises.
Long-Term Investors
If Boeing stabilizes MAX and 787 output and clears 777X certification hurdles, long-term upside remains substantial. But confirming a stronger Boeing cash flow outlook is the key milestone before institutions begin accumulating again.
Bottom Line
Boeing is winning orders, but that’s not what will move the stock. Traders and investors want sustained production improvements and a repaired Boeing cash flow outlook. Until Boeing delivers that, every positive headline will be overshadowed by cash concerns and certification delays.