Singapore Air Show Sees Orders for China’s COMAC, Boeing
Singapore Airshow Kicks Off with Orders for China’s COMAC, Boeing
By Lisa Barrington, Brenda Goh and Joe Brock
Singapore began Asia’s largest aviation event with orders for planes from China’s COMAC and Boeing, reflecting the industry’s recovery from the pandemic and ongoing supply challenges. The Singapore Airshow is a platform for over 1,000 companies from more than 50 countries, featuring Western industry giants and their Chinese counterparts.
International Participation at the Airshow
The Singapore Airshow is a biennial event focused on commercial and defense aviation. Participants include giants like Airbus, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, as well as Chinese companies such as COMAC and AVIC. Despite the absence of Russian companies due to the war in Ukraine, Israeli companies like Israel Aerospace Industries and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems are in attendance, marking a significant international presence at the event.
Displays and Orders
The airshow featured flying displays of military aircraft from various countries, along with commercial jets like the COMAC C919 and an Airbus A350-1000 powered by sustainable aviation fuel. Notably, COMAC secured the first aircraft orders of the event with China’s Tibet Airlines and Henan Civil Aviation Development and Investment Group finalizing deals for C919 single-aisle planes and ARJ21 regional jets. Meanwhile, Royal Brunei Airlines and Thai Airways placed orders for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Challenges in the Aviation Industry
As global travel demand recovers, airlines and manufacturers are grappling with supply chain struggles that have led to delays in aircraft production. Major suppliers, planemakers, and engine producers are facing challenges, causing delays in the production and service entry of aircraft models like the A321XLR and 737 MAX.
Sustainability in Aviation
Amid efforts to reduce carbon emissions, airlines are exploring sustainable aviation fuel and transitioning towards greener practices. However, the industry is facing challenges in terms of cost and supply availability, with plans for initiatives like a levy on departing flight ticket prices in Singapore to support the transition towards green jet fuel.
The aviation industry’s recovery from the pandemic is evident at the Singapore Airshow, with a focus on addressing challenges and embracing sustainable practices for the future.
