The global aviation industry is preparing for one of its biggest events of the year as the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 gets underway from July 20 to July 24 in the United Kingdom.

Every edition of the airshow attracts aircraft manufacturers, airlines, leasing companies, engine makers, and aerospace suppliers from around the world. Beyond showcasing the latest aviation technologies, Farnborough has become the preferred stage for announcing major commercial aircraft orders worth billions of dollars.

This year’s event is expected to be no different, with Airbus and Boeing preparing to compete for new business as airlines continue expanding their fleets to meet growing passenger demand.

Philippine Airlines Nears Major Split Order

One of the biggest expected announcements involves Philippine Airlines (PAL). According to a Reuters report, the country’s flag carrier is close to finalizing a major fleet expansion that would benefit both Airbus and Boeing.

The proposed agreement includes 15 Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners and nine Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. If confirmed during the Farnborough Airshow, it would become one of the largest commercial aircraft orders announced at this year’s event.

For Boeing, the deal would be especially significant as it would mark the company’s first aircraft order from Philippine Airlines in nearly two decades. Airbus, meanwhile, would further strengthen its long-standing relationship with the airline through additional A350 deliveries.

Etihad Airways Also Expected to Place Boeing Order

Another airline being closely watched is Etihad Airways.

Industry sources indicate that the Abu Dhabi-based carrier is nearing a deal to purchase around 10 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Although the agreement has not yet been officially announced, many analysts expect the airline to use the Farnborough Airshow as the platform for revealing the order.

If finalized, the purchase would further strengthen Boeing’s position in the Middle East widebody market.

Qantas Evaluating Additional Widebody Aircraft

Australia’s Qantas is also considering another major fleet expansion.

The airline is reportedly evaluating an order for approximately 20 additional widebody aircraft, with both the Boeing 787 family and Airbus A350 series under consideration. While negotiations are still ongoing, aviation industry observers believe an announcement could come during or shortly after the airshow if discussions are completed in time.

Such an order would support Qantas’ long-term international growth strategy and future replacement of older aircraft.

Lufthansa Maintains Dual-Manufacturer Strategy

Although not expected to announce a new order at Farnborough, the Lufthansa Group remains an important customer for both Airbus and Boeing.

Earlier this year, the German airline group ordered 10 Airbus A350-900s and 10 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, highlighting its strategy of operating aircraft from both manufacturers to maximize fleet flexibility and operational efficiency.

More Airlines Could Surprise the Industry

Apart from these expected announcements, several other airlines are being watched closely by industry analysts.

Carriers including Turkish Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Air India Group, and Riyadh Air are all evaluating future fleet expansion plans. While no confirmed Farnborough announcements have been reported so far, the airshow has often delivered last-minute surprises, making additional aircraft deals a strong possibility.

Aircraft leasing companies are also expected to announce significant orders, which could further boost the total value of commercial agreements signed during the week.

Airbus and Boeing Ready for Another Fierce Competition

With global passenger traffic continuing to recover and airlines investing heavily in next-generation fuel-efficient aircraft, Farnborough Airshow 2026 is shaping up to become another major battleground between Airbus and Boeing.

Philippine Airlines’ expected split order demonstrates that many carriers are choosing to balance their fleets rather than rely on a single manufacturer. At the same time, potential orders from Etihad Airways, Qantas, and other airlines could make this year’s Farnborough Airshow one of the busiest aircraft sales events in recent years.

As the world’s aerospace industry gathers in the United Kingdom, attention will now turn to whether these expected agreements become official—and whether Airbus or Boeing emerges as the biggest winner of Farnborough 2026.