A Flurry of Deals in the Desert
This week, the five-day Dubai Airshow 2025 concluded on Friday, 21 November, transforming the exhibition floor into one of the busiest marketplaces in the global aerospace calendar. More than 1,500 exhibitors from 115 countries and regions showcased over 200 aircraft, ranging from wide-body commercial airliners to stealth fighters and advanced drones.
Leading the charge, Emirates Airlines announced a $38 billion order for 65 Boeing 777-9 jets, the largest single-aircraft deal of the show. Meanwhile, the UAE's Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement signed 36 contracts valued at $6.8 billion. Regional and international carriers such as FlyDubai, Etihad Airways and Ethiopian Airlines also placed multi-billion-dollar aircraft orders, underlining sustained demand across markets.
Rising Influence of the Chinese Mainland
A standout feature this year was the growing footprint of firms from the Chinese mainland. Around 50 exhibitors showcased technologies from aviation giants to disruptive startups. The headline attraction was the COMAC C919 passenger jet, making its Middle East debut. Visitors toured a China Southern Airlines-operated C919 cabin and met its pilots, while COMAC pilots wowed the crowd with an aerial demonstration – the jet's first public flight display in the region.
These milestones reflect a broader shift in global aviation. As Chinese mainland manufacturers ramp up output and certification efforts, carriers from the Asia-Pacific to Europe are evaluating new entrants alongside established OEMs.
Looking Ahead
Dubai Airshow 2025 underscored a global market in dynamic flux: legacy orders remain robust and new players are staking their claim. With next year's Paris Air Show on the horizon and sustainability targets pushing innovation in electric and hybrid propulsion, the aerospace sector is charting an ambitious course. For young global citizens, tech enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, the deals and demos in Dubai offer a glimpse into tomorrow's skies.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
