The stage is set for the two major civilian aircraft manufacturers - Airbus and Boeing - to fight it out for Middle East skies at Airport Expo Dubai, which plays host to Dubai 2001.

Both Airbus and Boeing are taking part at this year's show, the seventh International Aerospace Exhibition, with a wide range of products.

Both expect an increase in orders from Emirates airline, and from Middle East carriers whose ageing fleets need to be revamped.

They will both push their latest and what they think are best-suited products to the region.
Airbus will participate with its newest and largest aircraft, the A340-600, which is expected to be a highlight of each day's flying display.

It is the first of three currently on flight trials, and it spresence at Dubai 2001 underlines the importance of the region for Airbus.

The aircraft display in Dubai will lead to airline deliveries begining in mid-2002. On its side, Boeing has gone on a media blitz in the region to promote its proposed Sonic Cruiser.

Apart from these, both will display their other products.

Airbus will also disply the A330/A340 family of airplanes and the ACJ from the A320 family.

Meanwhile, Boeing will display graphic panels, plasma screens and models of various products from its six business units: Commercial Airplanes, Military Aircraft and Missile Systems, Space and Commun-ications, Boeing Capital Corp, Connexion by Boeing and Air Traffic Management.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Government and Military Sales Organisation is a newcomer to the stand this year.