A leading figure in the aviation industry has criticised operators seeking to exploit the backlogs of the leading aircraft manufacturers to extract favourable terms.
Gediminas Ziemelis, the Chairman and founder of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest wet-lease provider, said: “The more vocal critics of Airbus and Boeing are likely being opportunistic, seeking to leverage current challenges for better deals.”
In remarks made during a visit to Boeing’s facilities in Seattle to confirm an order for up to 80 737 MAX 8 aircraft, Ziemelis gave the US manufacturer a vote of confidence in its ability to overcome its recent production challenges and meet the surging demand for commercial aircraft by 2030.
“I’ve seen firsthand as a customer that Boeing is turning the corner on its production issues,” Ziemelis said. “I anticipate a gradual return to 2018 production levels from both Airbus and Boeing as we progress through the rest of the decade.
“When we placed our inaugural direct order with Boeing last year, we did so based on our confidence in the aircraft and the company. This conviction remains unwavering.”
Both Boeing and Airbus have faced substantial supply chain disruptions since the pandemic, which have impacted their production capabilities. However, Ziemelis believes that Boeing is on track to resolve these issues within the next five years.
Avia Solutions Group’s order for the 737 MAX 8 strengthens its ties to the US market, and Ziemelis recently participated in the inauguration ceremony of the 47th President of the USA, Donald Trump, in Washington, DC.
The Dublin-based company has offices in Ireland, the USA, the UAE, Lithuania, Australia, Asia-Pacific, and South Africa.
Photo: AVIA Solutions Group
Avia Solutions Group Chairman and founder, Gediminas Ziemelis.
