Pity there have been no big civil aircraft at the show but regional aircraft and business jets have been represented. The engine manufacturers have made their presence felt, with Pratt & Whitney unveiling its PW8000 geared turbofan.
On the military front, there has been powerful interest centring on attack helicopters as Singapore evaluates competing aircraft for what is thought to be a 30-aircraft requirement. Matra BAe Dynamics announced its first export sale of the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM).
People make air shows. Making his last appearance as chief executive of Airbus Industrie was the legendary Jean Pierson, who leaves the company after 13 swashbuckling years. The industry is poorer for his leaving; richer for his legacy.
Source: Flight Daily News
