Wide-body jets dominate Paris Airshow amid muted US presence

Leading planemakers are battling over strategy for big jets as the Paris Air Show got under way yesterday.

After a bruising two-year fight for market share for smaller models, Airbus and Boeing are increasing the deployment of next-generation long-range jets, seen as crucial to the future of both companies and their suppliers.

Days after it surprised the industry by making the first flight of its new A350 just in time for the show, Airbus will attempt a curtain call on Friday with a fly-by for the French president, Francois Hollande, on only the plane's third test.

"People are focusing on long-haul aircraft this year. It is a crucial segment and a fundamental one for the profitability of both constructors," said Bruno Goutard, an economist at credit insurer Euler Hermes, which has a key role in aviation.

Boeing said last week it saw a US$1 trillion market over the next 20 years for medium-sized, twin-engined passenger jets, a category that includes its 787 Dreamliner. Europe's Airbus and its US rival have placed bets worth tens of billions of dollars on the success of this market.

Behind them Canada's Bombardier is betting the same technology will be suitable for smaller planes as it seeks to boost orders for its new CSeries, due to fly this month.

Brazil's Embraer is expected to announce an upgrade and possible fresh orders for its regional E-Jet.