As a prominent exhibition for the aviation industry, last week’s Dubai Airshow was significant in another context. It was the first air show since the covid-19 pandemic made air travel anathema. It was business as usual, as the world’s top two aircraft manufacturers announced new customer orders. Airbus amassed orders for 408 aircraft, led by 255 from private equity firm Indigo Partners and 111 from leasing company Air Lease Corporation. Boeing secured orders for 98 aircraft, including 72 from India’s newest airline, Akasa Air. Both said business was picking up—after nearly two years.
