In a dramatic opening to the Paris Airshow, Airbus announced a substantial $3.5 billion order from Saudi Arabian leasing company AviLease. The deal, which includes 30 A320neo jets and 10 A350 freighters, marks AviLease’s first direct transaction with the European aerospace giant and underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans to transform into a regional aviation powerhouse.
This significant contract comes amid a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, as France’s decision to close four Israeli stands at the show over their display of deadly weapons sparked a diplomatic row. The Israeli Ministry of Defence labeled the closure “outrageous and unprecedented,” while U.S. Republican Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders criticized it as “pretty absurd.”
The Paris Airshow, the largest of its kind globally, typically sees major business deals. However, this year’s event faces reduced activity, partly due to last week’s tragic crash involving an Air India Boeing 787, prompting Boeing executives to cancel their participation and focus on the ongoing investigation.
Despite these challenges, Airbus appears poised for success on home soil, with rising interest in its defense offerings as Europe increases military spending amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran.
Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions are gaining momentum, with plans to rival hubs like Dubai and Qatar through the new Riyadh Air and a massive six-runway airport development. Industry insiders suggest Riyadh Air is expected to announce further agreements with Airbus imminently.
Additionally, sources indicate that Polish airline LOT may soon announce an order for 40 Airbus A220 aircraft, with options for an additional 44, edging out competition from Brazil’s Embraer. While none of the parties have commented, Airbus is reportedly also leading discussions for a major A220 order from AirAsia.
