Airbus delivered more commercial airliners than rival Boeing in 2011.
Reports Thursday said Airbus handed 530 jet planes to customers during the year.
Airlines apparently liked the revamped A320 which features improved fuel efficiency and cuts costs in an era of high oil prices.
Boeing delivered 477 planes, which is three percent more than the prior year, but fewer than it planned.
Boeing has updated its best-selling 737 and hopes to sell many more of them in 2012.
The company has also overcome three years of delays and problems and has started delivering its new 787 to airlines. The 787 "Dreamliner" uses lightweight composite materials and advanced engines to improve fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
