By Bikram Vohra
As predicted in the IA&D opening salvo, Boeing thundered out of the gate on Day 1 with a massive order of 100 737 Max narrowbodies for Delta and the promise of government approval for the Max 10, the latest edition to this stable, hopefully offering a 30% fuel reduction.
Tacking on to this deal was a second reasonably robust agreement with ANA for 20 737-8 airplanes, coupled with 10 options. The airline’s selection of the 777-8F is the first for this aircraft by an Asian carrier. Still flush with their China deal, Airbus kept their powder relatively dry on the opening day, but a biggie can be expected soon.
Even as Prime Minister Boris Johnson was addressing a gathering at the show, a diversion was created at the usually staid air exhibition by the Extinction Rebellion Group, climate change activists pushing empty prams to signify the threat to an unborn generation.
In a sort of link, this was in keeping with the emphasis being laid by the aviation community and sincere efforts to ensure cleaner flying, sustainable aviation fuels. Rolls Royce is working on a hydrogen engine. One of the announcements at this show will be the UK-Japan agreement to make the next generation Tempest fighter with a 30% less carbon footprint and fuel burn.
Out on the tarmac catching the eye were A350 and the F22 Raptor. As the evening wore on, the Red Arrows took over the skies, promising much more excitement in the coming days.
