Q: Have industry players been quick to adapt technology to cater to the changing needs in the aerospace market?

The industry has made tremendous progress in digital transformation and sustainable technology adoption, though the pace varies across markets. In the Middle East, national carriers and governments have been remarkably agile, investing in next-generation fleets, smart airports and digital operations that enhance safety and efficiency.

At Boeing, we see growing momentum in areas like predictive maintenance, data-driven flight operations and the integration of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). The UAE, in particular, continues to set benchmarks through early adoption of innovation, whether through its SAF roadmap or the exploration of advanced mobility solutions.

Q: In which areas and geographies do you see strongest potential for growth?

The Middle East remains one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets, driven by its role as a global connector. Demand for both widebody and single-aisle jets continues to rise as airlines expand networks and cargo operations. According to Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook, the region’s commercial fleet will grow nearly 4 percent annually, outpacing the global average.

Beyond the Gulf, we see significant growth opportunities in Africa, Türkiye and Central Asia, where governments are modernizing infrastructure and investing in air transport as a catalyst for economic development. These emerging markets will shape the next wave of fleet expansion and regional connectivity.

Q: What technologies do you predict will impact the aerospace industry most in the next five years?

Autonomy, advanced air mobility and digital integration will reshape how people and goods move. Boeing is building on decades of expertise to accelerate an autonomous future through our subsidiaries Wisk Aero and SkyGrid. Wisk has completed more than 1,700 test flights of its electric air taxi and is progressing toward certification of a fully autonomous, all-electric passenger aircraft.

Through partnerships like these, we are uniting autonomy, airspace management and digital flight technologies to enable safe and scalable urban air mobility. The next five years will see major strides in sustainability, advanced manufacturing and the fusion of digital and physical aerospace systems.

Q: What are your expectations from Dubai Airshow 2025, and what can attendees expect to see from Boeing?

Dubai Airshow has always been a strategic platform for collaboration and innovation. This year, Boeing will showcase a broad portfolio spanning commercial, defense and services, including the 777-X on flying display, interactive exhibits such as a full-scale 777-X cabin, and the F-15 EX simulator. We’ll also feature sustainability tools like the Boeing Cascade Climate Impact Model and highlight our venture-backed startups driving next-generation mobility.

Beyond the exhibits, our leadership and experts will join panels on sustainability, supply-chain resilience and future technologies. The Airshow remains a chance to reaffirm our partnerships and celebrate the region’s growing influence on global aerospace.

Q: Lastly, what are your company plans ahead in the region?

Boeing’s focus is on long-term partnership and shared growth. We continue to deepen industrial collaboration with organizations such as Tawazun, Strata and Edge Precision Industries, which are helping build advanced manufacturing capabilities and skilled Emirati talent. These partnerships have already integrated UAE suppliers into our global supply chain, producing components for the 777, 787 and 777X families.

Looking ahead, we’re supporting the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision through sustainable aviation fuel initiatives, digital solutions and training programs that develop future aerospace professionals. Our goal is to continue enabling innovation, capability and opportunity, ensuring the Middle East remains at the forefront of global aviation.