Paris Air Show Kicks Off — Baykar Represents Turkey
The world’s largest aviation event, the Paris Air Show, opens its doors on June 16 at Le Bourget. However, this year’s exhibition is overshadowed by a series of major global challenges, including the tragic crash of an Air India Boeing 787 Dreamliner that claimed at least 242 lives, intensifying geopolitical tensions, and mounting economic pressure. Following the crash, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg canceled his scheduled appearance. Airbus, meanwhile, is facing ongoing delivery delays due to supply chain constraints involving engines and critical components.
Trade policy is also high on the agenda, with new U.S. tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump taking center stage. Aircraft and component imports are expected to face additional duties of 10–20%, straining the industry’s global supply chains. Both Airbus and Boeing executives have called for a return to tariff-free trade. Ortberg emphasized that rising costs cannot simply be passed on to customers, making tariff removal essential.
Geopolitical developments have also shifted focus toward military aviation. With the war in Ukraine and increasing NATO-related concerns, European nations are boosting defense budgets. The show features 75 defense industry firms, showcasing platforms like the Rafale, F-35, UAVs, and military helicopters.
🇹🇷 Turkey’s Baykar is among the exhibitors, presenting the Akıncı UCAV, Bayraktar TB3, and Kemankeş 1 Mini Smart Cruise Missile. The event will also include the debut of Lba Systems, a joint venture between Baykar and Italy’s Leonardo.
