Boeing Dreamliner Crash and Middle East Tensions Cast Shadow Over Paris Air Show

Paris — What was expected to be a confident showing for aerospace giants at the 2025 Paris Air Show has been eclipsed by tragedy and geopolitical unrest. The crash of Air India Flight 171, the first-ever fatal incident involving a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and rising Israel-Iran military escalations have altered the tone of the industry’s flagship event.

The Dreamliner, en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 241 of 242 passengers. Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg and Commercial Airplanes chief Stephanie Pope have canceled their attendance to focus on the investigation. GE Aerospace also postponed its investor day.

While causes remain unknown, investigators are analyzing the aircraft’s black boxes to determine what led to its sudden and even descent. Ortberg urged the public not to speculate until official results are released.

Simultaneously, missile strikes between Israel and Iran prompted major airlines to divert flights and raised fears over future demand for global air travel. The incident is shifting air show focus toward military spending and the broader impact of conflict on aviation markets.

Still, business continues. Boeing and Airbus are poised to announce hundreds of aircraft orders, driven by high global demand and limited delivery slots. Boeing projects 43,600 new planes will be needed globally over the next 20 years, with emerging markets leading growth.

Aircraft pricing and lease rates continue rising amid tight supply. Airbus and Boeing jets have seen price increases up to 12% since 2023, with lease rates for older models up nearly 50%.

Despite the backdrop, analysts expect up to 800 commercial aircraft orders during the show. Prospective buyers include Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad, Royal Air Maroc, Vietnam Airlines, and others. However, Air India is now unlikely to announce new deals in light of the crash.

While tragic events cast a somber mood, industry insiders maintain long-term demand remains strong. The focus now shifts to investigations, accountability, and resilience in a turbulent environment.