STORY: Airbus delivered more jets over the first half of the year, but it's battling mounting headwinds.

Industry sources estimate the aerospace giant handed over about 323 new aircraft.

That would be up about 2% on last year, with official figures expected next week.

But the sources estimate deliveries fell short of targets in June.

That would tally with a warning from Airbus last week that it was cutting its goals for the year.

It now aims to deliver 770 jets, instead of the 800 initially planned.

The firm cited a shortage of engines, structural parts and interiors.

As a result it put back plans to raise output of its best-selling A320neo family of jets.

It still expects to hit a record rate of 75 per month, but not until 2027 - a year later than expected.

Right now it makes 50 per month.

There was no comment on the latest reports from Airbus.

But some analysts are already cutting their forecasts for its output next year.