Both Airbus and Boeing provided updates on their latest aircraft programmes: Boeing confirmed it has 500 orders for the 787 Dreamliner, as well as updating visitors on the 747-8 interior development programme, which will draw heavily on the design language and lessons learned from the 787. Airbus provided an update on the A380, confirming Singapore Airlines will launch its first A380 into commercial service in October this year. The European manufacturer also shared the findings from its recent route-proving flight trials with Lufthansa.

The latest developments in in-flight entertainment are also on display, with Panasonic announcing it has been selected by Hamburg International for 14 A319 aircraft.

A number of new lightweight materials have also dominated the headlines, with first-time exhibitor Lamera AB of Sweden picking up no less than four awards (including the ultimate winner) at the first ever Crystal Cabin Awards, held on Tuesday night at the Hotel Atlantic.