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CNBC
10 hours ago
- Business
- CNBC
Airbus orders dominate Paris Air Show as Boeing takes backseat — again
Airbus orders and new models have taken center-stage at this year's Paris Air Show, as its U.S. rival Boeing spends yet another major industry event keeping a low profile due to turmoil at the business. Airlines and manufacturers use air shows as an opportunity to make splashy aircraft purchase announcements following months of negotiations, some of which will be wrapped up at the event. Airbus had racked up nearly $21 billion as of Thursday morning, per a Reuters calculation. That included 132 firm orders on Monday, from customers including Saudi leasing firm AviLease, Japan's ANA and Poland's LOT, versus 41 for Boeing and 15 for Brazil's Embraer, according to a tally by aviation advisory IBA. The following two days saw Boeing hold back from announcements completely, while Airbus splashed a 150-aircraft Memorandum of Understanding with VietJet Air focused on its single-aisle 100 A321neos, and orders with EgyptAir and Starlux Airlines for its wide-body A350s. Air Asia chief Tony Fernandes told CNBC on Thursday that he was in discussions at Paris about expanding the firm's existing order for the Airbus XLR — the Toulouse-based planemaker's flagship new long-range, narrowbody aircraft — and expected an announcement within the next month or so. The model, which entered service last year, is set to allow airlines to offer medium- and long-haul routes at lower rates due to reduced fuel costs. Embraer also secured a key win Wednesday with 60 firm orders for the E175, along with further options. Boeing's relatively quiet presence in Paris isn't indicative of a wider demand crisis in the sector. The manufacturer sealed plenty of orders during U.S. President Donald Trump's May trip to the Middle East, including a 210-jet deal with Qatar Airways. Both Boeing and Airbus meanwhile have aircraft backlogs of more than 5,000 and 8,000 aircraft, respectively, figures that have barely budged for nearly a decade as industry supply challenges — exacerbated in the wake of the pandemic — leave airlines struggling to renew their ageing fleets. John Plueger, chief executive officer of Air Lease Corp, told CNBC earlier this week that the backlog meant it was always expected to be a subdued show in Paris compared to those past, including the post-pandemic boom year of 2023. "Both Airbus and Boeing are all sold out to 2031 and '32 anyway. So how many follow-on orders into the '33, '34, '35 time frame are you really going to see? ... But overall, the demand environment remains very robust," Plueger said. However, this does mark yet another year in which Boeing has refrained from the aircraft flypasts or major promotional activities. Starting in 2019 in the wake of the two fatal crashes of its B737-Max model, followed by the pandemic which threw the industry into turmoil, and then with fresh crises delivered via an emergency exit door blowout, allegations of widespread quality control issues, and increasingly-disgruntled customers over delivery delays — Boeing has had a difficult time. Just as 2025 appeared like it may represent a tentative turning point for the company, with CEO Kelly Ortberg due to attend Paris, the first-ever crash of a Boeing Dreamliner in last week's Air India disaster threw that into disarray. Ortberg pulled out of attending the event, and the firm has made few press announcements while it says it is focused on its customers and the investigation into the causes of the crash. "Demand for new aircraft remains unprecedented, matched only by passenger demand for air travel," said Tony Payne, partner at law firm DLA Piper. He added that orders remain strong despite a "sombre and reflective environment" in the wake of the Air India crash, as stakeholders are "well aware of the impact" any relaxation of standards can have. "Orders for new aircraft and engines remains strong but alongside a sombre and reflective environment, where stakeholders are well aware of the impact of any relaxation of standards can have." "Muted" has therefore become the word of the week in terms of commercial aviation, while defense — making up nearly half of the show's content this year — takes on a bigger-than-ever role amid roiling Middle East conflict, the Russia-Ukraine war and an upcoming NATO summit at which higher national security spending will be high on the agenda. Deals in this space have included Thales' contract to build 48 of its new remote-operated artillery systems for the French government. "The consequences, the impact of the accident of Air India" are hanging over Paris, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury told CNBC on Monday. "Still, the momentum in the industry is very strong," he continued, noting particular demand for widebody aircraft which had more catching up to do following the pandemic than the narrowbody market. Dan Taylor, head of consulting at IBA, told CNBC that the split between Boeing and Airbus this year was "more about context than competition." "Boeing's recent orders in the Middle East, helped by U.S. diplomatic engagement, and its quiet stance post-Air India likely influenced its lower visibility at the Paris Air Show. This isn't a sign of weakening demand, but rather a deliberate pause amid a volatile geopolitical backdrop and possible tariff uncertainties," Taylor said. "Airlines are likely busy reassessing fleet strategies given the latest crisis, but strong profitability, ageing fleets, easing debt levels, and continued GDP and travel demand growth across many regions all point to a sustained long-term appetite for new aircraft."
Hype Malaysia
12 hours ago
- Business
- Hype Malaysia
AirAsia Triumphs As World's Best Low-Cost Airline For 16th Consecutive Year At Skytrax 2025
They've won at life! AirAsia has once again been named the World's Best Low-Cost Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025, marking its 16th consecutive win. This reflects the airline's strong presence across ASEAN and beyond, with a network of over 130 destinations, affordable fares, and a focus on operational excellence. Through its multi-hub strategy in Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia, AirAsia continues to make travel more accessible, affordable, and seamless across Asia. At the Paris Air Show 2025 in France, Datuk Kamarudin Meranun, Chairman of Capital A and Co-Founder of AirAsia, accepted the award, saying: 'Sixteen years on, this recognition remains just as meaningful as ever. We started with a simple dream to make flying affordable for everyone. To be recognised for the 16th time reaffirms that we have stayed true to that mission and continue to soar high in the minds of the many millions of passengers who choose to fly with us each year. While this award is truly another fantastic achievement, we never rest on our laurels and it inspires us to go even further.' Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A and Co-Founder of AirAsia, shared his thoughts on the win, saying: 'This is a deeply emotional win for me. From flying just 200,000 guests in our first year to aiming to welcome our one billionth guest this year, this journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of our guests, and the tireless dedication of our incredible Allstars. Every challenge we have faced, every comeback we have made, was made possible by their trust and effort. We thank the Skytrax team for recognising our work, and I would like to share the award with my Allstars – it belongs to them. Thank you for believing in the dream.' Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: 'We congratulate AirAsia on this fabulous achievement at the 2025 World Airline Awards. This success for a record sixteenth time is a clear reflection of their dedication to providing quality, affordable travel options to customers. This is a most competitive and fast growing market for low cost airlines, and this award demonstrates AirAsia's success.' The award also serves as a testament to the airline's contribution to connecting both primary and underserved secondary and tertiary cities. This model has enabled the launch of unique and strategic routes such as Kuala Lumpur-Labuan Bajo, Bangkok-Narathiwat, Manila-Tagbilaran, Jakarta-Silangit, and others expanding access to emerging travel corridors and tourism growth areas. Looking ahead, the airline is set to deepen its connectivity across Central Asia and the Middle East, marking a significant step forward in its ambition to become the first truly global low-cost network carrier. At the same time, AirAsia's continued emphasis on guest experience sets it apart. Having flown close to one billion guests, the airline maintains high levels of customer loyalty and brand advocacy across its key markets. Ranked as the 24th most valuable airline brand globally with a value of US$1.93 billion (RM8.22 billion), AirAsia reflects both strong regional roots and global appeal. The Skytrax World Airline Awards is one of the most prestigious honours in global aviation. The online survey ran from September 2024 to May 2025, with 22.3 million eligible entries from over 100 nationalities. More than 325 airlines were included in the results. The survey and awards are fully funded by Skytrax, with no fees charged to participating airlines. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
The Star
18 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Trading ideas: Public Bank, DNeX, Food Life, Master TEC, MN, Guocoland, Capital A, Kobay, LGMS, Pharmaniaga, Scientex
KUALA LUMPUR: Here is a recap of the announcements that made headlines in Corporate Malaysia. Public Bank ordered to pay RM90mn in damages to the National Feedlot Corporation for confidentiality breach. Dagang Nexchange Bhd has secured a RM103.8mn contract from the government to continue providing support for the Integrated Government Financial and Management Systems over a period of 60 months. Food Life Sdn Bhd a wholly-owned subsidiary of Farm Price Holdings Berhad, has entered into agreements to acquire assets and a business from Hong Yun Vegetables and Fruits Sdn Bhd, as well as assets from D & D Sinma 8888 Univeg Trading for a total of RM4.5mn in cash. Master TEC Group Bhd has entered into a MoU with Yangtze (Jiangsu) Marine Technology Company Limited to explore collaboration on high-specification and next-generation cable solutions for Malaysia's growing power infrastructure market. MN Holdings Bhd has secured a RM39.6mn contract for the expansion of the electrical supply system for a cable landing station located at a data centre in southern Peninsular Malaysia. Guocoland (Malaysia) Bhd said the group faces a net financial impact of RM5.5mn following an arbitration ruling against its wholly owned subsidiary over a disputed project termination. The CEO of Capital A Group, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, said on Wednesday the owner of AirAsia is in talks to buy 50 to 70 Airbus A321XLR jets in coming months, but that the first priority is to complete the group's restructuring. Kobay Technology Bhd plans to reallocate RM20.7mn — part of the funds originally set aside for its aluminium business expansion — to develop manufacturing services for the electronic and electrical sector. LGMS Bhd is seeking a transfer of its shares to the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia from the ACE Market. Pharmaniaga Bhd said it will continue to stay in the black for the FY2025 after making a turnaround last year, according to its managing director Zulkifli Jafar. The group is targeting to deliver FY2025 revenue of RM4bn a profit after tax of RM60mn. Scientex Bhd saw its net profit slip over 5% to RM123.9mn in 3QFY25 as the improved operating profit at its property segment was more than offset by a weaker packaging division.
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
AirAsia's 16-year Skytrax streak proves Malaysian brand strength
KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia's recognition as the World's Best Low-Cost Airline by Skytrax for the 16th consecutive year is not only an acknowledgment of its operational excellence but also a testament to the strength of a Malaysian brand on the global stage, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said today. He said this sustained achievement reflects the resilience of a Malaysian-born brand that has transformed the regional aviation landscape. 'Through affordable connectivity, AirAsia has opened new opportunities, empowered communities and boosted growth in tourism, trade and cross-border travel. 'AirAsia's journey is proof of Malaysia's capacity for innovation, resilience and aspiration, demonstrating that with vision and commitment, we can shape the future of regional and global aviation,' he said in a Facebook post, while extending his congratulations on the recognition. Capital A chief executive officer Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, in a statement, said winning the title for 16 straight years was deeply meaningful and a motivation to continue delivering even better service. Meanwhile, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil also congratulated AirAsia on the Skytrax recognition. 'Not only has AirAsia flown nearly one billion passengers, but it has also carried the identity of Malaysia and ASEAN onto the global stage. 'This achievement underscores the strength of regional connectivity in uniting communities, driving growth and advancing shared prosperity,' he said in a Facebook post.
Time Out
a day ago
- Business
- Time Out
The world's best low-cost airlines in 2025, revealed
If you're booking last minute, flying short-haul or generally travelling on a budget, choosing a low-cost airline is one way many of us opt to save some serious cash. And while some budget airlines might have a bad rep, you don't always have to sacrifice punctuality, cleanliness and good service. Yep, low-cost doesn't equal low-quality. In fact, according to the World Airline Awards, there are 10 particularly great low-cost airlines to fly with. The highest-rated low-cost airlines, based on a massive customer satisfaction survey, have been revealed in a new ranking. Claiming the crown as the world's best low-cost airline this year is AirAsia, which marks an astounding sixteenth consecutive year of the operator's first-place position. Co-founder of AirAsia Tony Fernandes said: 'From flying just 200,000 guests in our first year to aiming to welcome our one billionth guest this year – this journey has been made possible by the unwavering support of our guests, and the tireless dedication of our incredible Allstars.' Scoot, a Singapore-based operator, and Indigo, an Indian airline, round out the top three, but have a look below at the full top 10. These are the world's best low-cost airlines, according to the World Airline Awards AirAsia Scoot Indigo Eurowings Vueling Airlines Volotea Transavia Iberia Express Flynas easyJet Plus: .
