Boeing is heading into the Paris Air Show following a blockbuster May, marked by securing 303 new aircraft orders and rolling out 38 new 737 MAX jets, achieving a production rate it has pursued for over a year. The company also delivered 45 aircraft last month, signaling a strong recovery in global air travel and airline fleet modernization.

Record Orders and Deliveries

May's 303 new orders represent Boeing’s sixth-highest monthly order tally in its history. The highlight was Qatar Airways’ historic widebody jet deal—the largest ever for Boeing—including 130 787 Dreamliners and 30 777X aircraft, along with options for an additional 50 long-haul jets. Of the 130 787s, 120 were booked in May, with 10 previously ordered in March but only recently identified in Boeing’s backlog.

Other notable orders included 20 737-8 MAX jets from Saudi Arabian-owned AviLease and seven 737 MAX jets from Canadian airline WestJet, which also canceled two earlier 737 orders. Gulf carrier Etihad announced plans to order 28 widebody jets but did not place a firm order, so these were excluded from May’s totals. After three cancellations, Boeing’s net new orders for May stood at 300, boosting its backlog to 5,943 aircraft as of May 31.

Production Milestone

Boeing reached a key production milestone by rolling out 38 new 737 MAX jets in May, hitting the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) monthly production cap set due to previous quality concerns. This steady production rate reflects Boeing’s efforts to stabilize output after challenges including a strike and quality issues earlier in the year. CEO Kelly Ortberg emphasized the need to maintain this production level consistently before seeking further increases from the FAA.

Deliveries and Market Impact

The 45 aircraft delivered in May marked Boeing’s fifth consecutive month surpassing 40 deliveries and nearly doubled the number delivered in the same month last year. Deliveries included 31 737 MAX jets (with notable deliveries to United Airlines and Alaska Airlines), seven 787s (including three to Qatar Airways), five 777 freighters, one 767 freighter, and one 737 NG converted into a P-8 Poseidon for the U.S. Navy.

 Notably, no deliveries were made to Chinese airlines in May due to a temporary halt amid tariff disputes, though the ban was lifted recently with a new 737 MAX arriving in China.

Context at the Paris Air Show

The Paris Air Show opened amid a complex backdrop of geopolitical tensions, recent aviation tragedies, and ongoing rivalry with Airbus. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg canceled his attendance to focus on supporting customers and the investigation into the recent Air India 787 crash. Despite this, Boeing’s strong May performance underscores its resilience and readiness to compete at the world’s largest aerospace event.

As of mid-2025, Boeing has delivered 220 aircraft, including 164 737 MAX jets, 28 787s, 16 777s, and others, while Airbus has delivered 243 aircraft this year. Both manufacturers are expected to announce new deals during the air show.

This robust May performance positions Boeing strongly as it navigates ongoing challenges and competition at the Paris Air Show 2025.

 

Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines, has embarked on a historic seven-year partnership with football powerhouse FC Bayern Munich, beginning from the 2025-26 season through to 2031-32. This strategic collaboration elevates Emirates to Platinum Partner status of the 34-time Bundesliga champions and six-time UEFA Champions League winners, marking a major milestone in the airline’s global sports engagement.

Renowned for its unparalleled success and vast international appeal, FC Bayern Munich commands an extraordinary global fanbase exceeding 140 million supporters across more than 100 countries. The club’s record membership of 410,000 fans underscores its deep-rooted community and international presence, making it a compelling partner for global brands like Emirates.

Under the new multi-year agreement, Emirates gains extensive branding rights that include prominent placements on LED advertising boards and pitch cam carpets at the iconic Allianz Arena. The airline will also enjoy access to Bayern players’ image rights, amplifying its presence during press conferences, interviews, and digital platforms worldwide. Alongside these marketing assets, Emirates secures premium hospitality benefits, including a dedicated skybox at the stadium, offering exclusive experiences for partners and guests.

Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are immensely proud to partner with FC Bayern — Germany’s most iconic football club. This collaboration goes beyond commercial interests; it embodies our commitment to Germany and our effort to connect with passionate communities worldwide. Sport uniquely unites people, and through this partnership, we look forward to engaging millions of Bayern fans while celebrating the pursuit of excellence.”

Echoing this sentiment, Michael Diederich, Deputy Chairman of FC Bayern, welcomed Emirates aboard: “We’re very pleased to welcome Emirates, a long-standing advocate of European football, as our new partner. Emirates offers not only financial strength but also global reach, perfectly aligning with Bayern’s sporting ambitions and expanding international footprint.”

This alliance also marks Emirates’ significant return to German football, enhancing its visibility in vital global markets, particularly in Asia and the United States, where FC Bayern’s popularity continues to surge. With Emirates’ expansive global network and premium services, the partnership promises to deepen the airline’s connection to football fans worldwide.

Football remains a cornerstone of Emirates’ extensive sponsorship portfolio. The airline’s iconic ‘Fly Better’ branding features on the jerseys of other elite clubs including Real Madrid, Arsenal, AC Milan, Benfica, and Olympique Lyonnais. Beyond team sponsorship, Emirates holds naming rights to Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium and serves as the Title Partner of the Emirates FA Cup. Within the UAE, the airline supports Al Ain FC and sponsors the UAE Pro League, underscoring its strong ties to football at all levels.

As Germany’s most decorated football club, FC Bayern boasts 34 national championships and six Champions League titles. While staying deeply connected to its traditions and loyal fanbase, the club continues to expand its global presence with offices in New York, Shanghai, and Bangkok, a vision that seamlessly aligns with Emirates’ worldwide ambitions.

This landmark partnership heralds an exciting new chapter where two global giants unite, promising unparalleled experiences for football enthusiasts and travelers alike. Together, Emirates and FC Bayern Munich are set to celebrate excellence, passion, and the unifying spirit of sport on a global stage.

Etihad Airways achieved a significant milestone in July 2025 by completing the busiest month of aircraft deliveries in its 22-year history. The airline received five new aircraft during the month, including two Boeing 787 Dreamliners, one Airbus A350-1000, its first-ever Airbus A321LR, and one Airbus A320. These additions bring Etihad’s fleet to a total of 106 aircraft, reinforcing its position as an operator of one of the world’s youngest and most modern fleets, with an average aircraft age of just 8.7 years.

Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad’s Chief Executive Officer, described July as a remarkable period with the most intensive delivery programme to date. He highlighted that these new aircraft would allow the airline to serve more destinations, increase flight frequencies, and provide exceptional travel experiences across its expanding network.

The new fleet acquisitions are strategically aligned with Etihad’s network requirements. The Boeing 787 Dreamliners are set to enhance long-haul operations to regions including Asia, Australia, and North America, while the Airbus A350-1000 aircraft will add capacity to high-demand routes. Notably, the arrival of the Airbus A321LR marks a significant milestone for the airline. This aircraft introduces a revolutionary narrowbody cabin configuration featuring dedicated First Suites, lie-flat Business Class seats—a regional first for narrowbody jets—and upgraded Economy seating with seatback entertainment. This cabin innovation elevates the flying experience on medium and short-haul flights.

These fleet expansions support Etihad’s ambitious goal to carry 38 million passengers annually by 2030. Over the past 12 months, the airline has already transported over 20 million passengers, doubling its passenger numbers compared to 2022. The aircraft deliveries coincide with a broader network expansion that includes 27 new destinations alongside increased frequencies on existing routes.

Looking ahead, Etihad plans to continue this rapid growth trajectory by taking delivery of an additional 20 aircraft annually throughout 2025 and 2026. This fleet and network expansion strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a key global aviation hub and further enhances Etihad Airways’ ability to deliver unparalleled travel experiences to millions of passengers worldwide.

In a significant step to modernize its military capabilities, Indonesia has inked a contract to acquire 48 KAAN fighter jets from Türkiye, the Indonesian Defence Ministry announced on July 29. The deal, signed during the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025 in Istanbul, marks Indonesia as the first international buyer of Türkiye's homegrown fifth-generation combat aircraft.

The KAAN, Türkiye's first fully indigenous stealth multirole fighter, completed its maiden flight in February 2024. Though serial production is planned to begin in 2028, the agreement with Indonesia includes phased deliveries over the next decade. The jets will be powered by two General Electric F-110 engines the same type used in fourth-generation F-16 fighters until a Turkish-made engine is introduced later.

Beyond procurement, the deal emphasizes joint technology development and industrial cooperation. Indonesia aims to establish local aerospace infrastructure, with partnerships involving state enterprises PT Dirgantara Indonesia and PT Republika Aero Dirgantara to support production and maintenance domestically.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin witnessed the signing, highlighting the pact as a marker of strong bilateral defence ties and a boost for Indonesia’s indigenous defence industry capacity.

This latest acquisition complements Indonesia’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its air force with diverse sources. Notably, Jakarta secured 42 French Rafale jets in 2022 for US$8.1 billion and is exploring additional Rafales. The nation is also considering China’s J-10 fighter jets and holds talks to procure US-made F-15EX aircraft. This multi-faceted procurement reflects Indonesia’s strategy to modernize an aging fleet while balancing technological partnerships and domestic industry growth.

In a related development at the defence fair, Indonesia signed a memorandum of understanding with Türkiye's TAIS Shipyard to purchase two Milgem Istif class frigates, strengthening naval cooperation. Details about the frigate contract have not been disclosed.

Indonesia’s ambitious defense investments come amid fiscal challenges, as its defense budget has seen modest reductions and remains under 1% of GDP. Analysts note potential funding constraints given the country's commitments across various fighter jet programs, including its involvement in South Korea’s KF-21 project.

Overall, Indonesia’s contract for the KAAN jets signifies a milestone in Southeast Asia’s military aviation landscape, projecting Jakarta’s intent to become a regional defense technology player while diversifying strategic partnerships beyond traditional suppliers.

Oman’s airports experienced a significant surge in revenue and operational activity in 2024, reflecting the country’s growing role as a regional aviation hub. According to the Civil Aviation Authority, total airport revenues rose by 17% to reach $272 million, driven by a 14% increase in aircraft movements, which totaled about 540,000, and a 12% rise in cargo handled, exceeding 150,000 tonnes.

This growth was supported by new air transport agreements signed with 19 airlines, raising the total number of carriers operating in Oman to 34.

Muscat International Airport, the largest in the country, saw passenger numbers climb by 3% to 12.9 million, while overall passenger traffic across all Omani airports increased by 4.1%. Salalah Airport, nearing full capacity, began receiving direct flights from Europe, signaling an expansion in international connectivity.

Oman Airports reported operational revenues of RO 114.5 million (approximately $296 million), with net income rising 15% to RO 23.5 million ($61 million), marking a record profit for the company. This financial success came despite challenges such as high maintenance costs and competitive pressures in ground handling services.

The Sultanate is actively investing in airport infrastructure to sustain this growth, with tenders issued for the construction of Musandam Airport near the strategic Strait of Hormuz and plans underway for a second terminal at Sohar Airport. These developments align with Oman’s broader strategy to boost tourism and business travel, aiming to increase annual tourist arrivals from three million in 2024 to 12 million by 2040.

The government is also fostering closer collaboration between Oman Airports and Oman Air to enhance service quality and regional competitiveness.

Despite Oman Air posting a loss of OR 72 million ($187 million) in 2024, Oman Airports’ strong financial performance and expanding airline network—now serving 40 airlines and 146 destinations—highlight the sector’s resilience and potential. The airports’ improved profitability and increasing passenger throughput underscore their critical role in supporting Oman’s economic diversification and tourism ambitions

Riyadh Air, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has signed a landmark agreement with Rolls-Royce for 100 Trent XWB-97 engines to power its fleet of up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The deal, announced during the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, follows Riyadh Air’s order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft with options for 25 more, marking a major step in the airline’s ambitious growth strategy.

The Trent XWB-97 is recognized as the world’s most efficient large aero-engine, delivering 97,000 pounds of thrust and specifically engineered for the A350-1000. This partnership is set to support Riyadh Air’s goal of connecting over 100 global destinations by 2030, with the airline’s total fleet orders now reaching up to 182 aircraft across three types.

In addition to the engine deal, Riyadh Air and Rolls-Royce signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the comprehensive TotalCare service package, ensuring the health and maintenance of the engines throughout their lifecycle.

The agreement was formalized by Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, and Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer at Rolls-Royce, in the presence of Tony Douglas, Riyadh Air CEO, and Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce.

Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Selecting world-class companies like Rolls-Royce to power our future Airbus wide-body fleet ensures we have the right partners to achieve our ambitions. This deal brings us closer to realizing our long-term vision of enhanced connectivity for Riyadh and delivering an unrivalled guest experience.”

Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, added:
“We’re looking forward to supporting the significant growth ambitions of Riyadh Air in its launch year. The Trent XWB-97 is an incredible engine, and our TotalCare package will provide operational certainty across the fleet.”

The new A350-1000 aircraft, powered by the Trent XWB-97 engines, will enable Riyadh Air to expand its network globally, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to transform Riyadh into a leading aviation hub. With its Air Operator Certificate secured earlier this year, Riyadh Air is on track to commence operations later in 2025.

Launched in March 2023, Riyadh Air is a digitally led, full-service airline committed to sustainability, safety, and premium guest experiences. The carrier aims to connect guests to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, featuring advanced cabin interiors and next-generation in-flight entertainment.

Rolls-Royce is a global leader in power and propulsion, supporting a wide range of industries and customers in over 100 countries. In 2024, the company reported annual underlying revenue of £17.8 billion and an underlying operating profit of £2.46 billion. Rolls-Royce Holdings plc is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange.

This collaboration underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to innovation and world-class service, positioning the airline as a key player in the future of global aviation.