12 August 2026
Farnborough International Airshow 2026
What shaped this year's event
Building resilience in a more unpredictable trading environment was a key theme at this year's Farnborough Airshow, an event that facilitated nearly USD85 billion in aerospace deals. Here are some of the highlights:
The Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) 2026 brought together aerospace manufacturers, airlines, lessors, suppliers, investors and technology companies from around the world. The event attracted 141,580 trade and public visitors from 136 countries, a 41% increase on the previous event. Significantly, the show also facilitated more than USD84.7 billion in aerospace deals.
Beyond aircraft orders, this year's event highlighted how the industry is balancing strong demand with supply chain constraints while continuing to invest in fleet renewal, operational efficiency and future growth. Key themes included artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, advanced air mobility (AAM), supply chain resilience and workforce development.
Order rundown and standout deals
Commercial aviation dominated the week's announcements, with more than 350 aircraft orders and commitments recorded during the event. Boeing secured 173 aircraft, followed by Airbus with 154 and Embraer with 30.
The standout deal came from SMBC Aviation Capital, which split a 200-aircraft order evenly between Boeing and Airbus. Accounting for more than 60% of firm aircraft orders announced during the show, the deal underscored the significant role leasing companies continue to play in fleet planning and aircraft demand.
Activity extended beyond airframes, with engine manufacturers announcing 904 firm engine orders during the event.
Final order numbers
Key themes from the 2026 event
Fleet modernisation and growth
Fleet renewal remained a key priority throughout the event, with airlines and lessors investing in newer-generation aircraft to improve efficiency and manage operating costs. Narrowbody aircraft dominated announcements, reflecting their importance across domestic, regional and short-haul networks. At the same time, widebody commitments from carriers such as Riyadh Air and Philippine Airlines pointed to continued confidence in long-haul travel demand.
AI and digital transformation
AI was one of the most discussed topics at Farnborough. Manufacturers, suppliers and technology firms showcased applications in predictive maintenance, production planning and operational analytics. The focus was on using data and automation to improve operational efficiency, strengthen reliability and support faster decision-making.
Sustainability remains a priority
Sustainability remained high on the industry's agenda. Exhibitors highlighted developments in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), more efficient aircraft designs and next-generation propulsion technologies. As operators balance growth with environmental commitments, these technologies are increasingly influencing fleet and investment strategies.
Emerging technologies
Advanced air mobility (AAM) remained a key area of interest, with Vertical Aerospace providing one of the event's most closely watched demonstrations. The company showcased what organisers described as the first public electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flight at Farnborough, including a transition between helicopter-style and aircraft-style flight modes. The flight offered a tangible example of how advanced air mobility technologies are progressing towards commercial use.
Defence and space
The event provided a platform for a range of defence and space developments. Defence manufacturers showcased capabilities in areas such as autonomous systems, advanced sensors and mission technologies, while industry leaders explored evolving security requirements and international collaboration. Discussions across the space sector focused on investment, satellite technologies and emerging commercial opportunities.
Building resilience through people and partnerships
Supply chain resilience and workforce development remained key industry priorities. Aircraft manufacturers and suppliers examined the challenges of increasing production rates while managing constraints around components, engines and skilled labour. Farnborough's Pioneers of Tomorrow programme also spotlighted future talent, connecting young people with aerospace careers and supporting the next generation of aerospace professionals.
Scanning the horizon
Beyond the commercial announcements, FIA 2026 highlighted the strategic priorities shaping the aerospace industry. Presentations and demos repeatedly highlighted how organisations are approaching digital transformation, sustainability, future mobility and talent development.
At a time of significant change and innovation across the aerospace industry, Farnborough offered an encouraging glimpse of the sector's direction of travel.
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