Aviation Week's Highlights From Dubai Airshow 2023
As we anticipate the Dubai Airshow 2025, let's take a moment to revisit the coverage provided by Aviation Week Network’s editors during the 2023 event.
This event highlighted the most significant developments and announcements in the industry, including major aircraft orders, advancements in the UAE, MRO partnerships, future fleet development, emerging aviation technologies, and growth in business aviation.
Here is a recap of some of the top stories, along with podcasts from the last Dubai Airshow.
Major Aircraft Orders
- Turkish Airlines reached an "Agreement in Principle" with Airbus for a substantial order of 355 aircraft.
- AirBaltic ordered 30 A220-300s while Airbus worked on certification for London City Airport.
- SunExpress placed its largest-ever order, totaling up to 90 737 MAX aircraft.
- Emirates and Flydubai ordered 125 Boeing widebody aircraft.
Future Fleet Developments
- Boeing outlined the certification test plan for the 777-9.
- Ethiopian Airlines ordered 737 MAXs and 787s as part of its plans to double its fleet size.
- Emirates continued discussions with Airbus about the A350-1000, with engine concerns influencing negotiations.
UAE Advancements
- Edge Group unveiled new uncrewed aircraft and missiles.
- The UAE ordered the domestically developed Reach-S UAS.
- The Chairman of Edge Group stated that they were "just warming up" regarding defense capabilities.
International Defense Highlights
- The F-15QA display indicated Boeing's renewed sales push in the region.
- Saab reported increasing international interest in its GlobalEye system.
- Russia introduced a new airlifter and maintained a significant defense presence at the event.
- L-15 jet trainers were confirmed to equip an Emirati aerobatic team.
MRO and Industry Partnerships
- Sanad launched the Middle East's first LEAP MRO center.
- Rolls-Royce successfully ran its UltraFan engine at full power.
- Lufthansa Technik expanded its partnerships with Emirates and Saudia Technic.
- Middle East MRO providers anticipated significant growth in the regional fleet.
Future Aviation Technologies
- AutoFlight Prosperity made its debut at the Dubai Airshow.
- Reaction Engines and CAeS expanded their zero-emissions propulsion partnership.
- The "Big Twin" cargo conversion was presented.
- The United Arab Emirates reaffirmed its commitment to establishing a lasting presence in space.
Business Aviation Growth
- Gulfstream's new offering began its Middle East and Asia-Pacific tour at the event.
- Dubai South Aerospace Hub enhanced its business aviation offerings.
- VistaJet reported growth despite a general slowdown in private aviation.
- Soisa Aircraft Interiors expanded its presence in the Middle East.
Aviation Week Network Podcast Highlights
The Dubai Airshow 2023 demonstrated the resilience and growth potential of the aviation industry in the Middle East, reinforcing Dubai's position as a global aviation hub through strategic investments and partnerships.
The coverage by Aviation Week Network provided unmatched insights into these developments, setting the stage for what promises to be an even more impressive Dubai Airshow in 2025.
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