Despite inclement weather, including forecast dust storms, forcing the closure of the NBAA-BACE static display on the show’s first day, the event still kicked off in grand style with a keynote speech – and the odd song – from country music star Dierks Bentley.
While that performance was all about show business, the business show, if you like, also got off to a strong start.
Bombardier delivered the biggest deal of the day, revealed that Bond, a new fractional aircraft operator, was the previously undisclosed customer behind a $1.7 billion order for 50 jets.
Bond will take a mixture of Challenger 3500s and Global 6500s as it targets the upper end of the fast-growing fractional market.
Also announcing its arrival at the show was US private airline Magnifica Air, which confirmed a lease agreement with Air Lease for four Airbus A220-300s and two A321neos. It is also purchasing a pair of the A220s – previously flown by EgyptAir — from Azorra.
The jets will be configured in a luxury layout it describes as “private class”. Operations are expected to launch in the third quarter of 2027.
Elsewhere, GE Aerospace revealed progress with its Catalyst turboprop engine. It is now gearing up the Catalyst’s production system and aftermarket support operation in preparation for the expected service entry of Textron Aviation’s Beechcraft Denali next year.