Mohan Sinha
19 Jun 2025

PARIS, France: The Paris Airshow kicked off on June 16, attracting attention with expected aircraft orders, but overshadowed by the recent deadliest air disaster in India and increasing missile strikes between Israel and Iran, which have unsettled the global aviation sector.

Every two years, Le Bourget Airport in northeast Paris transforms into a hub for the aerospace and defense industries. On its expansive tarmac, it features an impressive lineup of fighter jets, commercial airliners, and autonomous drones.

In the immaculate white chalets positioned along the flight line, aerospace leaders, government representatives, and military delegations converge to forge deals and discuss the geopolitical dynamics influencing the aviation landscape.

Participants anticipate that this year's event, running from June 16 to 20, will carry a more somber tone, with several public activities being reduced due to last week's tragedy, when an Air India Boeing 787 crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in over 240 fatalities.

Investigators are currently analyzing data related to the engine, wing flaps, and landing gear. Still, it remains too soon to reach conclusions, according to a source familiar with the investigation who spoke to Reuters in India. In response, India's aviation authority has mandated safety inspections of the airline's 787 fleet.

The industry is further unsettled by missile attacks between Iran and Israel, which began on Friday—just one day following the India crash—leading to the cancellation or diversion of thousands of flights in the region amidst the latest travel disruptions.

Aerospace and defense executives are also facing uncertainties surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump's fluctuating tariff policies. Many believe these policies have impacted the aerospace sector by complicating supply chains, increasing production expenses, and straining global partnerships.

The show coincides with the 10th anniversary of Trump's initial campaign for office in 2015, but his second-term trade policies have necessitated the industry's advocacy for its previous tariff-free status as the deadline for a pause in his "Liberation Day" tariffs approaches on July 8.

Boeing's CEO Kelly Ortberg and Commercial Airplanes head Stephanie Pope have canceled their plans to attend the event, leading the U.S. manufacturer to reduce its presence at the show to concentrate on supporting the investigation into the India crash.

However, aircraft deals are still expected to be unveiled at the show, with European politics also influencing discussions. Sources indicate that Poland is set to announce Airbus as the recipient of a significant contract to supply approximately 47 jets to its national carrier LOT—part of a broader effort to improve relations between Poland and France, home to Airbus's headquarters.

While Brazil's Embraer has vigorously pursued the deal, none of the involved parties have commented. Airbus is also favored against Boeing for a potential order for numerous jets from AirAsia. The former revived plans for a tighter 160-seat cabin layout while also showcasing an extended version featuring existing Pratt & Whitney engines.

Airbus is anticipated to kick off the event with two orders from Saudi clients, AviLease and Riyadh Air. Meanwhile, Boeing has put a stop to most announcements, including a fleet update from long-time customer Royal Air Maroc, but was already expected to take a quieter approach than Airbus, having made significant commitments during Trump's recent visit to the Gulf.