Boeing’s Turnaround in the Sky: Is This Stock Ready for Liftoff?

Boeing (BA) has been a stock that’s been grounded by turbulence for far too long—safety scandals, union strikes, and financial losses. But here’s the thing: the Q1 2025 earnings report just might be the catalyst for a long-awaited comeback. Let’s take a hard look at the numbers, the risks, and whether this is a stock that’s finally ready to soar.

The Financial Turnaround is Real
Boeing’s Q1 results were no small feat. The net loss narrowed to $31 million, a massive improvement from the $355 million loss a year earlier. Revenue jumped 18% to $19.5 billion, beating estimates—and that’s with a defense segment struggling mightily. The key here is cash flow: Boeing’s cash burn dropped to $2.3 billion, nearly halved from $4 billion in Q1 2024. This is progress.

But the real story is on the delivery front. boeing delivered 130 commercial planes in Q1—a 59.9% surge from last year. The 737 MAX is leading the charge, with 67 deliveries in the quarter. The company aims to ramp production to 38 MAX planes per month by year-end, and is pushing the FAA for approval to hit 42 per month. If they pull this off, revenue will explode.

The Defense Drag and the F-47 Lifeline
The defense division’s revenue fell 9% to $6.3 billion, a red flag. But Boeing isn’t giving up here: they just secured a $2.7 billion contract from the U.S. Air Force for the F-47 fighter jet. This could be the start of a rebound in a segment that’s critical for long-term stability.

Balance Sheet Boost: The $10.55 Billion Sale
Boeing’s decision to sell its Digital Aviation Solutions division to Thoma Bravo for $10.55 billion is a masterstroke. This isn’t just about cash—it’s about refocusing on its core business. With $544.7 billion in backlog (orders already booked), Boeing can now channel resources into production fixes and debt reduction.

The Stock’s Technicals and Analysts Are Bullish… But Cautious
The stock has already jumped over 10% this year, hitting $183.12 in April. Technical analysts are eyeing the $190 resistance level, with a breakout potentially sending it to $260—a 42% gain from current prices. Analysts are overwhelmingly positive, with 16 “Buy” or “Outperform” ratings, and an average price target of $195.86.

But here’s the catch: Boeing’s five-year average ROIC is -27.2%, a stark sign of inefficiency. And with $54 billion in debt, even a minor hiccup in production or trade policy could ground this recovery.

Risks: Tariffs, Strikes, and Safety
President Trump’s proposed 20% tariffs on imported aircraft parts would add $3 billion in annual costs—a bombshell. Boeing is also still reeling from the January 2024 midair door plug incident, which dented confidence. And don’t forget the 2024 union strike, which disrupted production.

The Bottom Line: A Stock With Wings, But Watch the Headwinds
Boeing is a company on the brink of a comeback. The 737 MAX ramp-up, $10.55 billion cash injection, and a narrowing loss all point to stabilization. Analysts see a 2026 EPS of $4.18 (up from a 2025 projected -$1.78), with revenue growth hitting 26% this year.

However, the risks are massive. If tariffs go through, or production stumbles again, this could all unravel. But here’s the key: Boeing’s backlog is ironclad, and the global need for commercial jets is undeniable.

Final Verdict: Buy With a Safety Net
At $183, Boeing is priced for a recovery—but not a guaranteed one. If you’re willing to bet on management’s ability to hit production targets and navigate trade wars, this stock has upside potential. But set a strict stop-loss at $160—and watch for that $190 breakout closely.

This isn’t a stock for the faint-hearted, but for investors who believe Boeing can finally fix its act, the rewards are there. Strap in—this plane could finally be ready for takeoff.