The Farnborough International Airshow 2024 (FIA 2024) provided another clear indication that the global commercial aviation industry has recovered to a considerable extent from the travails of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While FIA 2024 couldn't quite match the record-breaking orders seen at 2023 Paris Airshow, there was still plenty to celebrate for commercial airframers and engine manufacturers. In Paris, last year, Airbus and Boeing announced orders and commitments for 846 and 356 aircraft respectively; while at Farnborough this year, Airbus secured total orders and commitments for 164 aircraft, while Boeing garnered 96 along with options for 22 more. In total, this worked out to orders for a total of 260 commercial jetliners worth £81.5 billion (₹704,700 crore). This also included engine orders worth $8.23 billion (₹68,885 crore).
There is no doubt however, that the number of aircraft orders would have been higher, as aircraft deliveries have been constrained with the industry OEMS struggling to ramp up their production rates. Of course, the airshow was much more than commercial jetliner orders with a heavy focus on the rapidly evolving electric Vertical Take-Off And Landing (eVTOL) industry and the aviation industry's strong commitment to sustainability.
Orders Galore
Airbus which is making the best of Boeing's ongoing travails, bagged several widebody jetliners orders at the show. Japan Airlines ordered additional 20 Airbus A350-900 aircraft, while Virgin Atlantic placed a firm order for seven A330neo aircraft raising its total commitment for the A330neo to 19 aircraft. Abra Group (a majority investor in Brazilian carriers Avianca and Gol) also inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for five A350-900s. Finally, Saudi Arabia's leading low-cost carrier flynas entered into an MoU with Airbus for 15 A330-900 jetliners.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Jets, Tech, And Green Goals
The key themes at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 revolved around innovation and sustainability. Sizeable aircraft orders, advancements in eVTOL technology, and a strong commitment to environmental goals underscore an industry that is not only rebounding from past challenges but also setting the stage for a more sustainable and technologically advanced future, reports ATUL CHANDRA.
FREIGHT IN FLIGHT
In 2023, Indian airports handled over 3.15 million metric tonnes of cargo, with international freight dominating. As the sector aims to meet the government's ambitious annual target of 10 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030, this goal will require dedicated freighter aircraft, technological integration, infrastructure development, and regulatory improvements, among other things. By JAIDEEP MIRCHANDANI, Chairman, Sky One
ELEVATING PASSENGER EXPERIENCES
Panasonic Avionics Corporation is setting new standards in in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) with the launch of its state-of-the-art software design and development facility in Pune, highlights
CAUGHT IN PAPER JAM
Despite rapid digital advancements in passenger air travel with the airline market expected to surpass $35 billion by end of this decade, the air cargo industry remains bogged down by outdated legacy systems, impeding progress in efficiency and real-time tracking. A special report by
PITCHING FOR SUPPORT
India's air cargo industry is gearing up for a major transformation, aiming to nearly triple its capacity by 2030. Current infrastructure handles about 6.5 million tonnes, but meeting future goals will require significant investments to expand capacity, streamline operations, and adopt cutting-edge technologies. Industry leaders at a recent ACFI Annual Conclave emphasised the need for strong government support to overcome challenges, urging policymakers to address operational constraints and improve connectivity, reports
BATTLE FOR THE SKIES
As India's international air traffic experiences significant growth over the past few decades, the competition between Air India and IndiGo intensifies. Vistara's merger within Air India and the significant aircraft orders position the combined entity as a formidable player, while IndiGo's ambitious expansion plans and international focus set the stage for a competitive future, analyses
"We Aim to Bridge the Training Gap in Indian Aviation"
In a candid conversation with CRUISING HEIGHTS, KHUSHBEG JATTANA, General Manager India of Simaero, discusses the strategic timing of Simaero's entry into the Indian aviation market. He addresses the challenges posed by existing pilot training programmes from major airlines like Air India and IndiGo, and elaborates on Simaero's plans to complement these efforts with state-of-the-art training solutions. Jattana also sheds light on the potential growth in the South Asian region and the company's vision for the future.
POWERING UP
Urban Air Mobility providers are accelerating their eVTOL development programmes, reports
Transforming Air Traffic Control Training: CAE's Cutting-Edge Approach
In this interview, MARIE-CHRISTINE CLOUTIER, CAE's Vice-President of Performance, Strategy, and Marketing, discusses CAE's air traffic control training program. Highlighting strategic partnerships, advanced technologies, and global initiatives, the interview reveals how CAE addresses the growing demand for skilled air traffic controllers and flight service specialists. From their dedicated Montreal facility to expanding efforts across the globe, CAE is committed to providing tailored, state-of-the-art training solutions for the aviation industry's future.
POWERING A GREEN FUTURE
FIA 2024 witnessed a growing order book for aircraft engine manufacturers and provided important insights into the development of sustainable powerplants.
