Singapore will play host to Asia’s biggest air show next week for the first time since the end of COVID border restrictions, with regional travel rebounding and the military side of the show bristling with defensive systems and nervous arms buyers.

The expected increase in civil demand in Asia is currently being evaluated due to a shortage of supply and economic challenges across the industry. This is particularly evident in China, the world’s second-largest aviation market, as geopolitical tensions have brought attention to the issue of weapons.

According to Subhas Menon, the head of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines, supply chain problems are hindering the ability of numerous airlines to modernize their fleets and maintain their aircraft.

The upcoming event will showcase the inaugural international appearance of China’s domestically produced C919 narrow-body passenger aircraft, developed by COMAC.

As the two main airplane producers, Airbus and Boeing, face challenges in increasing production to meet the high demand for new planes, the spotlight will be on the Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) as a possible alternative. Boeing is also facing multiple crises, making it even more crucial for air show attendees to see how COMAC establishes itself as a competitive option.

Some experts in the field warn that China currently only has four operational C919s, which have only been approved by Chinese authorities. Additionally, the C919 is dependent on international suppliers.

However, the aviation authority in China has announced plans to market the aircraft globally in the coming year and attain certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.

Adam Cowburn from Alton Aviation Consultancy noted an increasing trend among clients to consider the C919 option in their fleet assessments.

COMAC and Airbus will both have their commercial planes on display at the show, while Boeing has chosen not to participate with any commercial aircraft this year.

This is the initial significant global business gathering following the recent 737 MAX 9 door plug incident that has put Boeing into its second safety dilemma in the span of five years. Pictures of a damaged fuselage zooming around the world have been circulating.

Sash Tusa, an analyst at Agency Partners in the UK, stated that previously, the aviation industry avoided public discussion of safety due to concerns that it would decrease confidence.

However, he noted that this code of silence no longer appears to be relevant.

Environmental impact

Singapore plans to host a conference for industry representatives to address the environmental effects of aviation. They will also unveil a strategy for ensuring the sustainability of Singapore’s aviation industry. In November, the international aviation sector made a commitment to reduce fuel carbon emissions by 5% by 2030, with the ultimate aim of achieving “net zero” carbon emissions by 2050.

Cowburn stated that Asia will play a significant role in helping the industry achieve its goal of reaching Fly Net Zero by 2050, as it currently holds the title of the largest aviation market.

A significant increase in the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is currently seen as the solution for achieving these goals. However, SAF is three to five times more expensive than conventional jet fuel, and there are concerns about how to meet the demand in a sustainable manner.

Sami Jauhiainen from Neste, a refiner that began refining SAF in Singapore last year, stated that the recognition of aviation’s environmental impact has been growing. There are now more concerns about the industry’s permission to continue operating, but there is currently no viable solution to address this issue.

Defense needs

Delegates stated that there is a demand for new freighters. As tensions increase regarding Taiwan, disputes over sovereignty in the South China Sea, and an increase in North Korean missile testing, regional defense budgets are increasing. A variety of systems, ranging from small drones to complex sub-hunting aircraft, will be showcased.

The conflict in Ukraine, which has involved frequent use of advanced air defense systems and repeated assaults on ships in the Red Sea, may lead to an increase in demand for technologies capable of intercepting missiles and drones. This may also include intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms used for monitoring enemies. None of the companies participating in the air show are from Russia.

Six air forces, including the United States and India, will perform aerial demonstrations.

Source: voanews.com