The plane industry's future is up in the air
Aircraft manufacturers have struggled so far at the biennial Farnborough air show to land massive deals with buyers. But there's still plenty to see, for shoppers and enthusiasts alike.
Making its descent
Plane enthusiasts are enthralled as a massive Airbus A380 descends onto Farnborough. The European plane manufacturer has just announced it would halve production of its double-decker superjumbo, to a dozen a year. But CEO Tom Enders expected demand for his "money making machine" to rise again in the next few years.
Taking off
Private jet, anyone? Those with some spare change in their pockets are sure to find the right plane to suit their needs at Farnborough.
Sharp maneuvers
The Royal Air Force's aerobatic team, the Red Arrows, escort a Lockheed Martin F-35B to kick off the action at Farnborough. But despite all the excitement up in the clouds, it's rather quiet on the ground - there has been a lack of spectacular order announcements so far.
Small but mighty
A look inside the cockpit of a Bombardier CS100 passenger plane. The Canadian manufacturer's 110-to-150-seat jets prove that it's not only size that matters. Air Canada, Swiss Airlines and Delta Airlines are on its list of recent buyers.
Big void
Customers pledged to buy planes, helicopters and drones worth $201 billion (180 billion euros) at the last Farnborough air fair two years ago. Compared to that, this year's order books seem rather empty.
Problem child
The military transport aircraft A400M is causing Airbus trouble. Certain parts of its exterior are prone to cracking, and now problems with its engine have been flagged as well. Still, Airbus plans to showcase the A400M's advantages at Farnborough.
New horizons
As countries like China and India grow wealthier, their aircraft demand will rise - or at least that's what the plane industry hopes. So far, it looks like their predictions are coming true. Chinese airlines Donghai and Xiamen have ordered dozens of planes worth $7.4 billion (6.6 billion euros) from Boeing.
Up close
Farnborough is perfect for aircraft fans who want to get up close and personal with their favorite planes. While business folk romp about the exhibition grounds during the week, the fair opens up to the general public on the weekend.