With jet fighters overhead, it was easy to be distracted at the Farnborough International Airshow last week. But for executives, there were distractions on the ground, too.

The American market, traditionally the world’s biggest for business jets, has slipped amid worries about the U.S. economy, while other markets, like Russia, South Asia and the Mideast, are growing.

Airplane manufacturers are trying to bolster their green credentials by lauding initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of flying, as well as the cost.

Problems linked to the braking system of Boeing’s much-delayed 787 Dreamliner conspired with a dearth of new orders from Western airlines to darken the mood at the aerospace industry’s showcase event.

Problems linked to the braking system of Boeing’s much-delayed 787 Dreamliner conspired with a dearth of new orders from Western airlines to darken the mood at the aerospace industry’s showcase event.