Rolls-Royce announced an additional £1.5 billion share buyback as its order book reached about 2,500 large aircraft engines. The British group maintained its 2026 underlying operating profit forecast of £4.7–4.9 billion, while orders for power systems used in applications including data centres also increased.
By the Editorial Team. Originally published in Polish on November 12, 2026, at 08:09:44 UTC.
The new buyback extends the company’s capital returns to shareholders. Rolls-Royce has already spent about £2.4 billion of a previously announced £2.5 billion programme. It plans to repurchase £7–9 billion of shares in total over 2026–2028.
About 2,500 large aircraft engines on order
Demand remains strong for large engines used in long-haul aircraft. The roughly 2,500 units in Rolls-Royce’s order book are scheduled for delivery over the coming years.
Airlines are also making greater use of engines already in service. Engine flying hours increased 4% year on year between January and October 2026, reaching 114% of the level recorded in the same period of 2019.
That directly affects the group’s revenue. Rolls-Royce earns income from both engine sales and long-term servicing, with more flying hours increasing demand for inspections, spare parts and overhauls.
Underlying operating profit forecast at up to £4.9 billion
Rolls-Royce maintained its forecast for underlying operating profit of £4.7–4.9 billion in 2026. Free cash flow is expected to reach £3.8–4 billion.
In the first half, underlying operating profit was £2.53 billion, compared with £1.73 billion a year earlier. Free cash flow increased from £1.58 billion to £1.96 billion.
Data centres drive demand for power systems
Power systems account for a growing part of Rolls-Royce’s business. The value of new orders in its Power Systems division rose 62% year on year in the first nine months of 2026. The division’s order book stood at £8.6 billion at the end of September.
Data centres are among the customers for these products, requiring reliable backup power. Rolls-Royce is in talks with a major digital infrastructure operator about supplying engines for that purpose.
