The FAA is finally lifting the flight traffic restrictions recently imposed due to the government shutdown, but it’s a different story at some of the world’s biggest aircraft manufacturers. Boeing (BA) is taking a cautious approach to raising its output despite recently winning regulatory approval to increase its 737 model to 42 planes per month. “Getting it right at pace is more important than going fast,” said Stephanie Pope, CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
A similar tone: The world’s third-largest commercial aircraft maker is also debating direction on the runway, holding off on any resolutions to launch bigger aircraft. “Whatever we do, it’s going to be another big decision for the company, and we are going to take the time it needs to make a decision,” Embraer (EMBJ) Commercial CEO Arjan Meijer declared. The Brazilian company produces the popular E-Series regional jet, but it’s not yet willing to take a tremendous financial risk in competing against the firmly established duopoly of Boeing (BA) and Airbus (OTCPK:EADSY).
Those planemaking titans continue to ink major orders for aircraft despite bottlenecks surrounding engines and other supply chain issues. Grabbing the headlines on the first day of the Dubai Airshow was an announcement by Dubai-based Emirates, which ordered another 65 Boeing 777-9 jets. There is also word about a massive Airbus (OTCPK:EADSY) order from Flydubai, which would be a big deal coming from a staunch Boeing (BA) customer.
Ready for liftoff? Other excitement is being seen at the show, which is expecting north of 100K trade visitors, as well as military and civil delegations from over 100 countries. Chinese-built COMAC passenger jets like the C919 and C909 made their debut in the Middle East, looking to scoop up more market share due to the long backlogs and delivery delays from Airbus (OTCPK:EADSY) and Boeing (BA). Flying taxis were also making airwaves, with Joby Aviation (JOBY) and Archer (ACHR) aiming for a launch next year of eVTOL passenger services between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
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