Sponsored by MTU Aero Engines

Day one at the 2022 Farnborough International Airshow saw the aviation, defence, space and technology industries reconnect after a four-year hiatus, with deals signed and spectacular displays from civil and military aircraft including the Boeing 777X.

The stifling heat endured by guests and exhibitors served to underline the urgency of achieving the World Economic Forum’s industry goal of net zero emissions by 2050, and sustainability was high on the list of topics under discussion.

The latest propulsion technology was on display, including MTU Aero Engines clean air engine, called ‘CLAIRE’, looking to revolutionise the future of industry.

eVTOL announcement

With the race on for advanced air mobility platforms, Brazil’s Embraer unveiled its latest developments with a revised configuration for its eVTOL vehicle. Original concepts – which have drawn more than 1,900 letters of intent – featuring a canard has now been succeeded by new design featuring eight rotors for lift and a pair of fans on a fixed wing to push the craft forward. The OEM unveiled a full cabin mock-up which has as many green credentials as the aircraft’s propulsion.

Boeing has announced US carrier Delta Airlines is to modernise its single-aisle fleet with the 737 MAX to meet demand as well as its long-term sustainability goals.

And Britain is to lead the development of a new flying combat air demonstrator, which will play a critical role in proving the technology and design principles needed to deliver the UK’s Future Combat Air System.

Subscribe to the FINN weekly newsletter