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As the aviation world gathers at Le Bourget Airport for the Paris Airshow from June 16–20, the usual celebration of aerospace achievements is clouded by two major crises—India’s worst aviation disaster in years and a rapidly escalating conflict in the Middle East. The biannual event, renowned for aircraft deals and defence showcases, opens under a sombre mood this time around.

Attendees from across the global aviation and defence sectors are arriving to see new aircraft, technology displays, and strike commercial and military contracts. However, last week’s crash involving an Air India Boeing 787, which killed more than 270 people, has led to scaled-back public activities, reported Reuters.

In response, India’s aviation regulator has ordered inspections of the airline’s Dreamliner fleet.

Middle East Conflict Sparks New Fears for Air Travel

Adding to the air of caution are renewed missile exchanges between Israel and Iran, which erupted just a day after the India crash. These strikes have forced numerous airlines to cancel or reroute flights across the region, creating further disruption in global travel and concern among aviation leaders.

There are also broader trade concerns in the background. US President Donald Trump's evolving tariff strategies—particularly the looming July 8 deadline tied to his "Liberation Day" tariffs—have raised alarms over rising costs and destabilised aerospace supply chains. Industry insiders say the uncertainty has strained international collaborations and increased production expenses for aircraft parts and engines.

Boeing Takes a Back Seat; Airbus Set to Score Wins

In the wake of the India tragedy, Boeing executives Kelly Ortberg and Stephanie Pope have withdrawn from attending the show. The company is keeping a low profile, focusing on supporting the crash investigation. Still, a Riyadh Air 787 is on display outside Boeing’s chalet, and prominent brand banners remain in place across the venue, the news agency reported.

Despite its scaled-down presence, Boeing was already expected to have a quieter week than Airbus, having locked in several major orders during Trump’s recent Gulf visit. One of those anticipated wins for Airbus includes a landmark deal with Poland for around 47 A220 jets for state carrier LOT. Citing sources, the report further stated that Airbus is leading in negotiations with AirAsia for additional A220 orders, and the company is displaying a potential stretch version of the jet fitted with Pratt & Whitney engines.

Meanwhile, defence and space firms are taking advantage of the platform to demonstrate next-generation technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, keeping the show’s focus partly on the future even amid today’s tensions.