Last week, the 2023 Dubai Airshow was a massive showcase of the best aviation has to offer. More proof that commercial aviation is back to what it once was before COVID. Not only did manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus stole the show, Emirates showcased their future plans to the public as well as what the future might hold for aviaition. So with all of that being said, here are the biggest stories that came out of Dubai 2023.
The Emergence of the African Market
A big story that went under the radar at the airshow was the emergence of the African sector. For example, Royal Jordanian Airlines ordered 2 more 787-9s to go with the 4 ordered earlier bringing their backlog to 6 in addition to the 7 787-8s they already own. Samer Majali CEO of Royal Jordanian said the following:
"Our decision to add the 787-9 Dreamliners to our fleet is a testament to our dedication to providing an unparalleled travel experience. This move aligns seamlessly with our broader strategy of fleet modernization, empasizing fuel efficiency, sustainability and passenger comfort. As we embark on this journey, we are confident that the Dreamliner's cutting-edge technology will play a pivotal role in elevating our operational capabilities."
In addition to Royal Jordanian, Royal Air Maroc confirmed their order for 2 more 787-9s to their fleet..
Egyptair also joined the party by ordering 10 Airbus A350-900s to replace their Boeing 777-300ERs delivered between 2025 and 2027. They will fly them in tandem with their A330s that are currently in their fleet. In addition to the new Airbuses, Egyptair signed a deal with Air Lease Corporation to lease 18 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.
Lastly, Ethiopian Airlines placed an order for up to 67 Boeing aircraft that includes 20 737 MAX 8s and 11 787-9s with options for 21 and 15 more of the respective types. This is significant because Ethiopian Airlines was one of the two airlines affected by the 737 MAX crashes thus making the crisis come full circle. In addition to the aforementioned Boeing jets, they also signed a MOU (memorandum of understanding) for 11 Airbus A350-900s. Between all of these orders, the African aviation sector is an emerging market that will eventually be more relevant in the decades to come.
The Lack of Airbus A350-1000 orders
Despite Airbus receiving orders for the A350-900 from Ethiopian, Emirates and Egyptair as well as 50 A220s for AirBaltic, the A350-1000 didn't. Even though its capabilities were demonstrated at the airshow, no airline announced new orders for the type. Emirates president Sir Tim Clark stated the following about the lack of A350-1000 orders from Emirates:
"If the engine did what we wanted it to do and Rolls-Royce knows what we want it to do, and so does Airbus, then we would re-enter the type into assessment for the fleet."
If these issues were fixed, the Dubai-based carrier would order between 35 and 50 units. The biggest problem with the engines according to Emirates are that they can only do about a quarter of the cycles required to perform, which is between 2,000 and 2,500 flight hours. This is important due to the harsh climates the type would have to operate in the Dubai desert. While one manufacturer disappointed at the airshow, another one impressed.
The Re-Emergence of Boeing at Dubai 2023
Dubai 2023 was an important victory for Boeing. Not only did they receive 295 total orders compared to 86 from Airbus, it was also the quality of their orders. First off, Emirates made a mammoth order for 205 Boeing 777X aircraft (170 777-9s and 35 777-8s with the first aircraft projected to be delivered in 2025) and 35 787s (20 787-8s and 15 787-10s).
In addition flydubai ordered 35 787-9s to go alongside their all 737 fleet. Between these orders and the previously mentioned orders from the other carriers, it proves that airlines are more confident ordering more Boeing jets despite the scrutiny the aerospace giant faced in recent times. But it also proves the biggest story of the airshow.
Dubai Cementing their Status as a Major Hub
Between Emirates' and flydubai's orders for aircraft, it's a statement to the world that the Middle East is here to stay as an important hub for decades to come. Despite emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia, India, and Turkey the airshow was an opportunity for UAE carriers to flex their muscles.
First off, the Dubai-based carrier announced plans to build a US $950 million engineering facility at Dubai World Central that will support the airline's fleet well into the 2040s. It will also have spare capacity for other carriers to use as well. Whether its conversions, heavy checks, engine testing and refurbishments this facility will play a major role in boosting the economy in the region.
In addition, Emirates signed a $1.2 billion deal with Safran to work on their aircraft as a supplier helping out with landing gear, seats, brakes, and retrofits.
Lastly and most importantly, Emirates announced a $1.5 billion agreement with various suppliers and partners to invest into the A380's long term future. With 90 currently in service, the Dubai-based carrier is still activating more from storage as well as adding premium economy to all of their aircraft. So far 16 have been retrofitted. This is great news for fans of the A380.
Conclusion
In summary, Dubai 2023 was proof that despite the global conflicts going on in the world right now, aviation is stronger than ever. Not only that but it's proof that Dubai won't go away as a major hub and it's still an important cog in the machine. But what are your takeaways from Dubai 2023? Be sure to let me know in the comments below, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving and keep looking to the sky!
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