Let’s have a look at the highlights so far….
Possibly the finest airshow in the world, held at DWC, 17-21 November. Predominantly for trade and media only, it highlights not only the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers but the latest in inflight wifi, seating, sustainability and components. There’s also plenty of opportunity to hear what future plans industry experts have in areas such as air traffic control. NATS focussing on a safer, more efficient tomorrow in the skies.
An impressive static display offers lots of photo opportunities and the chance for visitors to get close with general aviation, military and commercial aircraft. The show also provides a fantastic opportunity for orders to be placed and announced amid of fanfare of publicity.
We can’t move on without mentioning the amazing flypast at the start. Emirates proudly displaying their A380, B777 and A350 in the latest livery.
Boeing – there’s much interest in the 777X, it’s third visit. Having arrived 6 days before the show started, FR24 offered the opportunity to track. Its impressive flying display a firm favourite. There was also news that the manufacturer would conduct a feasibility study for a proposed 777-10, after pressure from Emirates
Emirates - first day announcement of another order for 65 777-9 from Emirates was a surprise, given Sir Tim Clark’s criticism of the constant delays. Powered by GE9X engines.
Ethiopian – ordered another 11 737MAX8
Air Senegal – signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 9 737MAX8, with options for a further 6
Airbus – not to be outdone by its competitor’s first day announcements, their order book was further enhanced. Talk about a stretched A350 also resurfaced at the show.
Flydubai - currently all-B737 fleet, it’s maybe surprising that a MOU was signed for up to 150 A321neo, with a further 100 options. Such is the airline’s ambitions, they will operate a split fleet for the next 7-8 years, anticipating significant network expansion. Deliveries will begin in 2031
Air Baltic – added a further 30 A220-300, with an option for an additional 20. Enhancing the airline’s vision of 100 by 2030, becoming the leading A220 customer in Europe and globally.
Etihad – the carrier has ordered a new aircraft type, 15 A330neo, first deliveries in 2027. Also increased commitment for up to 7 A350-1000 and 3 A350F. To be supplied by leasing company Avalon
Emirates – still holding back on ordering A350-1000, citing concerns about the durability of Rolls Roye XWB-97 engines. An order for -900 with conversion rights to -1000 could be placed to secure the airline’s place in the production queue. RR have conducted a durability enhancement programme but it’s not clear whether the improved results to date will be good enough.
Al Fursan- the UAE’s aerobatic display team made its first appearance flying the Chinese-produced Hongdu L-18 advanced twin engine jet trainer. These replace the Leonardo supplied Aermacchi MB-339. The team has 7.
Starlink – perhaps it came as no surprise, given other airlines’ recent announcements, Emirates will equip 200+ aircraft with this increasingly popular internet. Target date of 2027 for the total fleet.
Other highlights so far –
Joby – showcased its electric VTOL aircraft before the company launches air taxi operations in Dubai next year.
DWC – there’s been a great deal of interest in the plans for the new Dubai International Airport. A large model has been assembled to demonstrate its size and enhanced passenger experience.
And finally –
Thanks to Captain Andy Peoples (Emirates A380) for his excellent social media reports and photos from the air show. Here’s a mention of his standout moments
“the Chinese contingent came in the form of Comac with C919 and CBJ in the static line-up”
“Etihad had their new A321LR on display with CFM engines”
“the most hospitable bunch of people I came across were the staff and crew from Scat Airlines with their new MAX8. A credit to Kazakhstan”
He commented that it was great to get really up close to the static displays, including his company aircraft and those from Emirates Flight Academy. If you want to take a look at more of his photos, just go into Twitter/X and type Andy Peoples in Search
Information courtesy of Simple Flying, FlightGlobal, Captain A Peoples (Emirates via X)
Images courtesy of Emirates (via YouTube), Captain A Peoples
©TPSC, LadyJet2, information and photo/diagram suppliers