Airlines are still willing to bet on Boeing, and the biggest aviation show of the year proves it

Airlines are still placing orders with Boeing, and the Farnborough Airshow has underscored that confidence during CEO Kelly Ortberg’s recovery push. Ortberg appeared prominently at the event, including sitting in a front row for an order signing and speaking at a media reception as part of a more hands-on style since he took over two years ago. Industry consultant Augusto Viansson Ponte said the volume of Boeing orders is a positive sign, suggesting operators believe Boeing will resolve earlier safety, quality and delivery problems. Boeing beat Airbus in Farnborough orders—173 aircraft versus 154. Boeing’s bid also follows a quieter Paris showing last year. Still, Boeing posted a $428 million second-quarter loss amid a $280 million charge tied to the Air Force One replacement program.