Boeing and Airbus Compete for Market Supremacy at the Paris Air Show
The Paris Air Show, the largest international aerospace event, is poised to commence on June 19 at Le Bourget airport. After its cancellation last year due to the pandemic, the biennial exhibition will serve as a platform for showcasing the latest advancements in the aviation industry. However, the focal point of attention will be the ongoing rivalry between industry giants Boeing and Airbus, who dominate the commercial aircraft market.
During the air show, Boeing and Airbus are anticipated to announce new orders and commitments from airlines and leasing companies as they vie for market share and customer loyalty. However, neither company plans to unveil any new aircraft models this year. Instead, their focus lies in recovering from the pandemic, as well as addressing the challenges posed by emissions reduction and efficiency improvement.
Boeing continues to grapple with the repercussions of the 737 Max crisis, which resulted in the grounding of the best-selling jet for nearly two years following two fatal accidents. While the company has resumed 737 Max deliveries after obtaining regulatory approval, it faces a backlog of over 3,000 orders and diminished trust from certain customers and passengers. Additionally, Boeing has encountered technical issues and weak demand, leading to the postponement of the launch of its new 777X wide-body aircraft until 2025.
In contrast, Airbus has gained an advantage over Boeing with its A320neo family of narrow-body aircraft, offering superior fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to the 737 Max. The European manufacturer has also been bolstering production of its A220 jet, which competes with smaller variants of the 737 Max. Year-to-date, Airbus has delivered 244 planes, surpassing Boeing’s 206 deliveries.
Nevertheless, Boeing is determined to regain its competitive standing. The company will showcase its largest 737 Max model, the 737-10, capable of seating up to 230 passengers and covering a range of 3,300 nautical miles. The aircraft will make its maiden flight during the air show and is expected to enter service in 2023. Additionally, Boeing will exhibit its new 777-9 jet, accommodating up to 426 passengers and boasting a range of 8,383 nautical miles, as a direct competitor to Airbus’ A350-1000.
Both Boeing and Airbus will also present their projects related to electric and hybrid aircraft, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of aviation. Boeing will feature its Wisk Aero eVTOL, an all-electric self-flying air taxi capable of carrying two passengers for up to 25 miles. Airbus will showcase its EcoPulse hybrid-electric plane, accommodating six passengers and capable of covering up to 620 miles. These projects are still in development and are expected to enter service within the next decade.
The Paris Air Show will run until June 25, attracting aviation enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the world. The event will also include displays and demonstrations from other aerospace manufacturers, including Embraer, Bombardier, ATR, and Leonardo. The air show provides an opportunity for the industry to demonstrate its resilience and innovation after a challenging year.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, 247wallst.com, cnbc.com