With an apprehensive aerospace sector
The 2025 Paris Air Show commenced on June 16 under a cloud of geopolitical tensions and recent aviation tragedies, casting a sombre tone over the event.
The recent crash of an Air India Boeing 787 in Ahmedabad, India, which resulted in over 270 fatalities, has prompted safety reviews and investigations into the airline’s fleet.
Simultaneously, escalating missile strikes between Israel and Iran have disrupted regional air travel and heightened concerns within the aviation industry. These developments have led to a more subdued atmosphere at the biennial event, held at Le Bourget Airport near Paris.
Despite these challenges, the 55th edition of the air show remains a significant platform for the global aerospace sector, with several key developments emerging. Over 150 commercial and military aircraft are on display at the air show site, with visitor numbers expected to exceed 300,000.
The 2025 Paris Air Show is organised by SIAE, a subsidiary of the French Aerospace Industries Association (GIFAS). It is the largest event in the industry, bringing together stakeholders from around the world.
Guillaume Faury, CEO of GIFAS, said: This edition is set to be particularly exceptional due to the number of exhibitors scheduled – almost 2,400 from 48 countries – due to the wealth of highlights throughout the show, and above all due to the unprecedented international context – a context marked by complexity and characterised by the resumption of global air traffic and growing demand, the climate emergency and regulatory constraints, geopolitical and commercial tensions, instability and fragmentation.
“This year, more than ever, therefore, the show offers a space and opportunity for dialogue and cooperation – for the decarbonisation of international aviation in the civil sector; for new forms of warfare and air defence in the military sector; and the future of European space in the space sector. Our goal was for this edition to showcase the progress made in creating more sustainable aviation, the innovations in air mobility, the progress made in the space industry, and the ongoing efforts to sustainably strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty.”
“The increased visibility of the space sector, through this year’s launch of the Paris Space Hub, embodies a renewed ambition to promote the French and European space industry. We have also invested heavily in the human dimension of these endeavours, promoting the professions and career opportunities available in a dynamic and inclusive industry that is resolutely committed to increasing the percentage of women present in its workforce, Faury added.
Airbus leads
Airbus is poised to secure a substantial order from Poland for 47 A220 jets, marking a notable deal in the commercial aviation sector. Additionally, the company is in advanced discussions with AirAsia for a potential order of up to 100 A220 aircraft, reflecting the growing demand for fuel-efficient, smaller-capacity jets.
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is making a significant impact, with Riyadh Air making its international debut at the event. The airline, backed by the kingdom’s Public Investment Fund, aims to transport over 100 million passengers to more than 100 destinations by the end of the decade.
However, despite speculation, Riyadh Air has not announced any new aircraft orders at the air show. Flynas, a Saudi low-cost carrier, has firmed up an order with Airbus for 30 new A320neo Family aircraft, bringing its total order with Airbus to 120 A320neo aircraft, including 10 A321XLRs. These developments underscore Saudi Arabia’s strategic focus on expanding its aviation sector as part of its broader economic diversification plans.
Boeing’s participation at the air show has been notably scaled back. Following the Air India crash, CEO Kelly Ortberg and Commercial Airplanes head Stephanie Pope cancelled their attendance, and the company has reduced its public activities at the event.
Despite this, Boeing’s presence remains visible, with a Riyadh Air 787 displayed behind its chalet. The company continues to navigate the aftermath of previous safety and industrial challenges, including issues related to the 737 MAX.
The 2025 Paris Air Show also serves as a venue for showcasing advancements in defence and aerospace technologies. American companies such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon are showcasing innovations in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, reflecting the industry’s focus on next-generation capabilities.
Additionally, the event underscores the growing emphasis on environmental sustainability, with discussions centred on the development and adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF); however, the high cost and limited availability of SAF present ongoing challenges to their widespread implementation.
The 2025 Paris Air Show, which runs until June 20, serves as a critical juncture for the aerospace industry to address current challenges and explore future opportunities. While overshadowed by recent tragedies and geopolitical tensions, the event remains a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the global aviation sector.
2025 Paris Air Show quick facts:
- 150+ aircraft on display
- 109 startups from 4 countries
- 332 chalets
- 2,500+ exhibitors from 50+ countries
- 1,100 exhibitors from France
- 300+ official delegations from 100+ countries
- Top 5 exhibitor countries (US: 449, Italy: 122, UK: 105, Germany: 102, Belgium: 86)
- 210+ flying displays
- 4 trade days
- 2 general public days
- 1 hybrid day
- 70 ha surface area
- 8km perimeter
Image: The 2025 Paris Air Show is organised by SIAE, a subsidiary of the French Aerospace Industries Association (GIFAS). Credit: SIAE
