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The Singapore Air Show: Jackie Chan, Ferrari and the Dreamliner

February’s Singapore Air Show set a new record of more than $31 billion in expected sales, a tripling of estimated contracts from the 2010 event. What was the big takeaway? Aircraft manufacturers are focused on meeting demands of their customers in the expanding Asian markets.

Showing off in a big way

Large jet manufacturers Boeing and Airbus, in spite of recent production and repair problems in both companies’ fleets, arrived in Singapore to unveil their latest product offerings. Boeing showed off the 787 Dreamliner that, due to its ultra-lightweight carbon composition, uses 20 percent less fuel and boasts cabin appointments designed to increase passenger comfort. Japan’s ANA was the first carrier to take ownership of the new plane.

Airbus, appealing to its ultra-wealthy client base, brought its ACJ318 business-class jet, which features sophisticated interiors, including a separate bedroom and dining area.

Small jets appeal to a new class of buyers

Plenty of smaller, private jets were on display as well. Embraer displayed the Phenom 100, a five-seat plane with an attractive sticker price of just $4 million. In a well-publicized move, Embraer also unveiled Jackie Chan’s new plane, a Legacy 650, which features an eye-popping red and yellow dragon on the livery. The Brazilian-owned company has focused its energies on landing customers from the emerging BRIC countries.

Small jet manufacturer, Bombardier partnered with Garuda, Indonesia’s top carrier, to supply 18 new CRJ 1000 jets intended for short, regional hops. Bombardier also listed the Global Express aircraft for sale — a 14-seater business class jet for $26 million.

Italy’s Piaggo brought its sleek-bodied Aero Avanti II to Singapore, asserting that the aircraft is the fastest turboprop in production. There’s good reason to believe the claim — the company is backed by auto performance leader, Ferrari.

An event that’s grabbing attention

The contracts announced at the event are further evidence of the dramatic rise in demand for new aircraft within Asia, which now makes the Singapore Air Show one of the most important events in the global aviation community. We can’t wait to see what’s in store in 2014!

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