No surprise: the Singapore air show was not about a flurry of aircraft orders. Much more satisfying was what the show was really about: new products.

Specifically, positive noises from Airbus and Boeing about re-engining their narrowbodies had engine makers, airlines and analysts animated in discussion of the Big Two's options and likely courses of action.

From Airbus, A320 talk has loosened up, to allow more leeway with public comments on timelines, targets and tactical manoeuvres about what it would like to see under the wing of its 25-year-old design.

Boeing has begun discussing a future beyond the 787 and 747-8 that have dominated its attention for a decade. The creation of the 737 and 777 advanced development teams marks a welcome return to a phase of visible product conceptualisation not seen since the 7E7 was a glimmer in Boeing's eye.

However, as Airbus and Boeing study their narrowbody development roadmaps, each is keenly aware of what's visible in the rear-view mirror. There, China's Comac is picking up momentum with its new CFM Leap-X C919 and the sales prospects of a massive domestic market. That combination could offer a real challenge in the Western airframers' most coveted market.

Re-engining A320s and 737s is as much about competition with the established rival as it is realisation of a fundamental shift in the quality of the competition.

Source: Flight International

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