The 787-9 on display. Beauty Contest Impressions from the Farnborough International Airshow, 14 - 20 July 2014 Article and photos by Bert van Leeuwen Russia's UTair Superjet. T Qatar A320 with sharklets. The 2014 Farnborough International Airshow turned out to be a real beauty contest with both Airbus and Boeing vying for the title of "best-looking newcomer." Perhaps reflecting concerns over the backlash of opinion about overweight twin-aisle aircraft models, both of these manufacturers entered the category with their newest lightweight composite models-the stretched Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and the Airbus A350-900. Fans A factory A380 replaced the Qatar aircraft. of both these newcomers could admire the aerodynamic curves on display as each floated back and forth across the runway with balletic grace. However, a surprise challenger for the title emerged when it was announced that one of the older models-already written off by many-was to undergo extensive cosmetic surgery in a bid to win the contest in 2017. This rejuvenated Airbus A330neo will not only include a "re-twisted" wing but also enhanced 16 The official publication of the International Society of Transport Aircraft Trading wingtips and enlarged Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines. The airshow left its trade visitors with a warm glow of satisfaction. The event, described by Reuters' star reporter Tim Hepher as the "Aero World Cup," offered lots of excitement. The trade days were blessed with fair weather equally suitable for a visit to the exhibition halls, a cold drink in the ISTAT Chalet or a day of plane spotting along the runway. Even for those of us who