Airbus has begun to showcase its newest passenger jet, the A321XLR, with daily flight demonstrations at the Farnborough International Air Show, while Boeing maintains a lower profile at the event, not participating in aerial displays and focusing on addressing regulatory concerns and customer commitments.
Boeing’s absence from the aerial demonstrations is a stark contrast to previous air shows where the company presented its latest aircraft models, reflecting the ongoing crisis the company faces due to safety issues, manufacturing challenges, and leadership transitions.
The Farnborough expo, a platform for aerospace companies to exhibit technological advancements and announce aircraft orders, is expected to host around 1,500 exhibitors from 42 countries and attract 80,000 visitors, with Airbus showcasing the A321XLR and Boeing concentrating their offering instead on new technology, sustainability, security, and services solutions.
Despite reduced participation at the air show, Boeing has secured deals for widebody jets with Korean Air and Japan Airlines, highlighting the rebound in demand for air travel post-pandemic, although both Boeing and Airbus face a backlog of orders and fierce competition in the market. Additionally, air taxi startups, including Boeing’s Wisk Aero, will display electric aircraft at the event as the industry continues to explore sustainable transportation solutions for urban areas.
