Part 1 of our report from Dubai Airshow 2021 sees us get rare access to the Boeing 777X, which made its public debut, and the Irkut MC-21. We had to hassle the Irkut people but it paid off with a unique look at the new Russian single-aisle plane as it takes shape and works its way toward certification. We also go onboard Embraer’s E2, try out its unique staggered business class offering and its economy seats, and hear about why it’s the right plane for the post-pandemic moment.