The Farnborough International Airshow 2024, held from July 22 to 26 at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre in the UK, was one of the most influential events in recent aerospace history. This year’s airshow broke records, with over 100,000 attendees and 1,500 exhibitors from more than 60 countries, along with a 57% increase in delegations compared to previous years. Significant commercial deals exceeding $105 billion were reported, highlighting the event’s substantial economic impact on the industry.
Airbus
At the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, Airbus showcased significant advancements in its commercial, cargo, and sustainable aviation efforts. Key highlights included the A321XLR in the air display, demonstrating extended range capabilities.
Airbus Military
At the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, Airbus Military highlighted several defense and military advancements alongside its broader showcase of sustainable and commercial aerospace technologies. Key exhibits included Airbus’s multi-role A400M military transport aircraft, which has been gaining traction as a versatile asset capable of tactical airlift, medical evacuation, and aerial refueling. Additionally, the C295 tactical airlifter, known for its capabilities in high-altitude and unpaved landing strip operations, was prominently featured.
Airbus Helicopters also attracted attention with its H160M model, designed for both military and civilian applications, showcasing Airbus’s response to modern multi-role demands within NATO and global military markets. The VSR700, Airbus’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), underscored the company’s innovations in autonomous systems, suitable for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Airbus’s military segment emphasized sustainability, reflecting the company’s long-term goals for reduced emissions and efficiency improvements across its fleet.
Boeing
Boeing’s defense sector took center stage as well, with a dynamic aerial display by the F-15QA and static displays of aircraft like the F-15EX, AH-64E Apache, and CH-47F Chinook. For the first time, Wisk Aero, Boeing’s subsidiary, presented its sixth-generation autonomous electric air taxi, emphasizing Boeing’s interest in advancing urban air mobility.
Embraer
Embraer showcased both new advancements in its commercial and defense aircraft portfolios and its strategic entry into the freighter market. One of the key highlights was the debut of the E190F, a converted freighter from its popular E190 passenger aircraft. This model, tailored to the growing demands of e-commerce and decentralized supply chains, aims to provide a nimble, efficient option for regional cargo transport. The E190F has been optimized for faster, more flexible deliveries, especially suited for regional and time-sensitive logistics operations.
In the defense segment, Embraer showcased its C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft, designed for versatility in a range of missions, including cargo transport, medical evacuation, and firefighting, as well as the A-29 Super Tucano, which is known for its effectiveness in light attack and reconnaissance operations. This diverse showcase underlined Embraer’s focus on innovation and its commitment to sustainability through ongoing developments in electric and hybrid-electric aircraft under its Energia family concept.
