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The 2018 Farnborough International Air show has kicked off in London with displays, exhibitions and family entertainment. UK Prime Minister Theresa May opened the show with a speech to more than 15-hundred exhibitors in attendance. Xi Jia has more.
Despite worries over trade tensions and Brexit, $46.4 billion in deals have been made on the opening day of the Farnborough Airshow on Monday.
Opening the event southwest of London, British Prime Minister Theresa May sought to reassure aviation leaders that her Brexit plan won't disrupt their supply chains.
THERESA MAY UK PRIME MINISTER "We're leaving the European Union and forging a new future for our country. And as we do so I want to ensure that the UK remains one of the best places in the world for aerospace companies to do business. To continue as world leaders in innovation, to make the most of the huge opportunities that exist. Because this is an incredibly exciting time for Aerospace. Not only is the huge growth potential, but many of the developments taking place have the ability to transform the way we fly."
About 1500 exhibitors from nearly 100 countries attend the airshow. Orders were placed for 311 civil aircraft across the show worth $43.6 billion. More than $2.8 billion in engine orders were also announced.
The largest event in the aviation sector this year, Farnborough International Airshow rotates with the Paris Airshow. Both airshows account for more than a quarter of industry orders each year.
XI JIA FARNBOROUGH "Farnborough International Airshow offers good opportunities for both exhibitors and buyers all over the world. Together with loads of static displays and stunning aerobatic performances, the airshow will remain popular for both aviation fans and traders. Xi Jia, CGTN, Farnborough, UK."