Fleet Renewal Drives Farnborough’s Second Day

Our Bureau - : Jul 22, 2026 - : 2:45 am

The pace of dealmaking at the Farnborough International Airshow eased on its second day, but manufacturers continued to secure business across commercial aviation, business jets and regional aircraft as airlines and operators focused on fleet renewal rather than headline-grabbing mega orders.

While Day 1 was dominated by major commitments from Airbus, Boeing and Embraer, Tuesday's announcements reflected a broader trend: carriers are investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft while operators are expanding into new market segments ranging from business aviation to air cargo.

Saudi Expansion

One of the day's most notable announcements came from Saudi Arabia's The Helicopter Company (THC), which signed a Letter of Intent with Bombardier for up to 60 business jets, including a firm order for 12 aircraft.

The order comprises five Challenger 3500s, five Global 5500s and two Global 8000s, with options covering another 48 aircraft. The agreement marks THC's expansion from helicopter services into fixed-wing charter and aircraft management, broadening its role in Saudi Arabia's growing aviation sector.

Owned by the Public Investment Fund, THC has been steadily expanding its fleet during the show.

Earlier the company confirmed an order for 11 Leonardo AW139 helicopters under a wider framework agreement covering up to 130 aircraft, while it had also announced the purchase of eight Airbus H145 helicopters.

Widebody Activity

Airbus added to its order book after Philippine Airlines signed a memorandum of understanding for nine additional A350-1000 aircraft, doubling its commitment for the type to 18 aircraft once finalised.

The new aircraft will strengthen the carrier's long-haul operations, particularly on services between Manila and North America.

Airbus also secured a new customer with Tajikistan's Shohin Airlines ordering four A320neo-family aircraft including two A320neos and two A321neos, marking the airline's first Airbus purchase.

Boeing Keeps Momentum Going

Boeing's commercial business also remained active.

Uganda Airlines committed to four 737-8s and four 787-9 Dreamliners in what becomes the African carrier's first Boeing order, supporting plans to modernise its fleet and expand regional and international services.

Luxair strengthened its 737 MAX programme by converting two options for the larger 737-10 into firm orders while adding purchase rights for two more aircraft.

Leasing giant AerCap ordered another 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, taking its portfolio to around 140 aircraft, while MSC Air Cargo expanded its future freighter fleet with five 777-8 Freighters.

Embraer Strengthens Regional Market

Embraer enjoyed another productive day with agreements spanning passenger airlines, leasing companies and cargo operators.

Latin America's Abra Group agreed to acquire 20 E195-E2 regional jets with options and purchase rights bringing the potential total to 45 aircraft. Luxair also expanded its Embraer fleet by converting purchase rights for three E190-E2 aircraft into firm orders, while Japan's Fuji Dream Airlines ordered two additional E175 regional jets.

Cargo leasing specialist Azorra announced plans to acquire up to 30 Embraer passenger-to-freighter conversions, underlining growing demand for dedicated regional freighters.

Market Shifts

Although Day 2 lacked the multi-billion-dollar announcements that characterised the opening day, it reinforced several themes emerging across this year's Farnborough Airshow.

Fleet modernisation remains the primary driver of airline investment, with operators favouring more fuel-efficient aircraft across narrowbody, widebody, regional and cargo segments. At the same time, Saudi Arabia continued to demonstrate its ambition to become a significant aviation hub, while business aviation and specialised operators emerged as increasingly important contributors to the show's commercial activity.