DUBAI, (Reuters) – Global aerospace companies sought Tuesday at Dubai Airshow to continue to show signs of a recovery following a worldwide pandemic which has decimated their profits and raise awareness about the climate change issue.

Airbus had placed major orders for new narrowbody aircraft and freighters. However, the company was looking for a contract to purchase up to 30 A320neo narrowbody planes from Jazeera Airways in Kuwait. The deal fell through due to difficult negotiations at the last minute, according to delegates.

The airlines as well as some suppliers want to show signs of industry recovery and use the airshow publicity deadline to get last-minute concessions.

However, the order pace was slow than previous Middle East editions. It was mainly limited to narrowbody aircrafts which are most in demand by low-cost carriers. There was little demand for wider-body planes supporting Gulf carriers.

Although the airline industry has been preparing to deal with the heightened demand for travel following the coronavirus epidemic, the Delta version of COVID-19 has delayed recovery by approximately 4-5 months. Tim Clark, President of Emirates, stated that this was a major setback.

On the sidelines, he spoke to journalists about the first major event since travel demand was severely affected by the pandemic.

After Airbus’ chairman Marwan Boodai told Reuters that Kuwait’s Jazeera was looking to purchase jets valued at up to $2Billion, the two airlines have been in talks.

Indian startup AkasaAir, which is backed billionaire Rakesh Juhunwala was widely anticipated to place an order for 70 Boeing (NYSE.) 737 MAX planes. This will allow the U.S. aircraftmaker to regain ground in an increasingly competitive market.

Akasa stated last month it expects to fly next year, having received initial clearance from the government to operate its latest ultra-low cost carrier.

Reuters reported September 9th that Boeing was in close proximity to securing an order for 70-100 Akasa jets. This is pending further talks regarding a long term engine service contract.