Top 10 Most Important Aviation Trade Fairs

Aviation trade fairs are crucial events where industry professionals, manufacturers, suppliers, and enthusiasts gather to showcase innovations, forge business connections, and explore emerging trends. These exhibitions provide a platform for networking, unveiling new technologies, and fostering collaborations between stakeholders in the aviation sector. Whether you are an exhibitor looking to present groundbreaking products or a professional visitor seeking valuable industry insights, attending these fairs can be a game-changer. Ensuring comfortable and strategically located trade fair accommodation is also essential for maximising productivity and convenience during these events. So here are some spectacular trade shows you need to visit to know what is happening in the aviation sector.

1. Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) – United Kingdom 

The Farnborough International Airshow (FIA), held biennially in Hampshire, England, is a premier event in the aerospace industry. The 2024 edition marked a record-breaking year, attracting 100,358 visitors—a 33% increase from previous years—and hosting 1,427 exhibiting companies from 41 countries. The event also facilitated over $105 billion in commercial aircraft and engine orders.

The expo area offers approximately 2,500 rooms within a 15-minute drive or a 10-mile radius of the venue, catering to various preferences and budgets. Given the influx of attendees, securing suitable accommodation near Farnborough is essential.

2. Paris Air Show – France 

The Paris Air Show, officially known as the Salon International de l'Aéronautique et de l'Espace, is an important aerospace trade show held every two years at Le Bourget Airport near Paris, France. Established in 1909, it is one of the oldest and most significant global aviation trade fairs. The 2019 show featured over 2,500 companies from 48 countries. The same year, the event attracted approximately 316,000 attendees, including 140,000 trade visitors. The show typically features around 150 aircraft, with 210 flying displays.

3. Dubai Airshow – United Arab Emirates 

The Dubai Airshow, held biennially in the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most popular trade fairs, renowned for its luxurious and high-tech exhibitions. The 2023 edition attracted over 100,000 visitors and featured over 1,400 exhibitors from 95 countries, showcasing state-of-the-art aircraft and advanced aerospace technology. The event boasted a display of over 190 aircraft, providing guests with an up-close look at the latest innovations in aviation.

The upcoming Dubai Airshow is scheduled for November 17-21, 2025, at the Dubai World Central (DWC) venue. Due to the high demand during the expo, booking lodgings well in advance is advisable to secure preferred accommodations and rates. When selecting your housing option, consider proximity to the DWC venue, public transportation access, and business-friendly amenities.

4. Singapore Airshow – Singapore 

The Singapore Airshow, held every two years at the Changi Exhibition Centre, is Asia's largest aerospace and defense exhibition. The 2024 edition attracted nearly 60,000 trade attendees, marking a 10% increase from the previous high in 2018. Given Singapore's status as a global hub, selecting appropriate business travel accommodations near the event venue can significantly improve the experience for attendees. The Changi Exhibition Centre is located in the eastern part of Singapore. While limited accommodations are in the immediate vicinity, several hotels within a reasonable distance offer convenient access to the venue.

5. EBACE (European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition) – Switzerland 

The European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva is an international trade show dedicated to business aviation. It allows manufacturers, operators, and industry professionals to explore advancements in private and corporate aviation. With thousands of participants traveling to Geneva, finding convenient exhibitor accommodation is crucial for optimizing business engagements. The upcoming EBACE 2025 is scheduled for 20–22 May 2025 at the Palexpo Convention Centre, adjacent to Geneva Airport.

6. Airshow China (Zhuhai) – China 

The China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition, known as Airshow China, is the nation's premier aviation trade fair, held biennially in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province. The 15th edition, which concluded on November 17, 2024, showcased significant advancements and attracted substantial participation. The event featured 1,022 exhibitors from 47 countries and regions, including 159 international companies—a 104% increase from the previous edition. A total of 261 aircraft and 248 types of ground equipment were shown, highlighting the latest in aerospace technology. Agreements worth approximately 285.6 billion yuan (about USD 39.7 billion) were signed, involving 1,195 aircraft of various models. The trade fair attracted nearly 590,000 visitors over its six-day duration.

The next Airshow China is scheduled for 2026 in Zhuhai.

7. Aero Friedrichshafen – Germany 

AERO Friedrichshafen is a premier global trade show dedicated to general aviation, encompassing a wide array of aircraft such as small planes, helicopters, and drones. The event serves as a key gathering for pilots, flight schools, and aviation technology companies, offering a platform to explore the latest innovations and developments in the industry. The 2024 expo hosted over 680 exhibitors from 38 countries, underscoring its international significance. In addition, it attracted 31,500 visitors from 81 nations, with more than 53% of visitors holding a pilot's license. Attendees had the opportunity to view over 270 aircraft, ranging from motor trikes and ultralights to touring and training aircraft and long-range business jets. The 2025 edition is scheduled for April 9–12 and will be held at the Messe Friedrichshafen Exhibition Center.

8. MRO Americas – United States 

MRO Americas is a premier annual event dedicated to the aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) industry. Each year, it convenes professionals from airlines, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), regulators, suppliers, lessors, and service providers to discuss industry challenges, innovations, and market trends. The 2024 trade show featured over 920 exhibitors, showcasing various products and services across the aviation MRO sector. The 2024 conference attracted more than 15,000 attendees, including airline managers, suppliers, maintenance specialists, and security experts. The expo offers a senior-level conference with over 45 expert speakers discussing strategic industry topics. The 2025 edition is scheduled for April 8–10 and will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

9. AIRTEC - Germany 

AIRTEC is an international trade fair focusing on aerospace, future air mobility, defence, and space sectors. The event showcases the entire aerospace value chain, highlighting innovations such as anti-collision systems, avionics, electronic components, emergency equipment, cargo space equipment, cabin interiors, engine parts, ground support equipment, motors, hydraulics, mounting devices, and sensors. AIRTEC 2024 attracted over 350 international exhibitors from 30 nations, providing a comprehensive overview of the future of aerospace. The expo also welcomed around 6,000 international trade visitors, facilitating around 2,200 B2B meetings, thereby offering unparalleled networking opportunities. The next AIRTEC event is scheduled for October 22–24, 2025, in Augsburg, Germany.

10. Passenger Terminal EXPO - Spain 

Passenger Terminal EXPO is one of the most popular international conferences and exhibitions focusing on passenger terminal design, management, security, and technology. The 2025 trade show is scheduled for April 8–10 at IFEMA in Madrid. It will feature over 300 international exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, and technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and the passenger experience in airports worldwide. The event is expected to attract over 10,000 international trade visitors from more than 120 countries, including senior airport, airline, aviation authority, and government executives. The Passenger Terminal EXPO conference is set to host more than 450 expert speakers delivering practical presentations across various topics. Attendees can expect over 65 sessions covering subjects such as Accessibility and Assisted Travel, Advanced Air MobilityAdvanced Air Mobility (AAM), Vertiports and Infrastructure, Airport Design, Planning and Development, and more. These sessions are designed to provide in-depth insights into current challenges and emerging trends in the aviation industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are still unsure what to expect when attending an aero trade show, here are some important frequently asked questions that may help you get a better idea.

1. Why should I attend an aviation trade fair?

Aviation trade fairs provide networking opportunities, showcase the latest technologies, and allow professionals to engage with industry leaders. These events serve as a platform to discover emerging trends, gain insights into market developments, and explore investment opportunities. Exhibitors can demonstrate their latest products and services, while visitors can establish valuable business connections, discuss collaborations, and negotiate deals. Furthermore, attending these trade shows enables professionals to attend keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops that offer industry knowledge and expertise. By participating, businesses can enhance their brand visibility, stay ahead of competitors, and access exclusive information about upcoming aviation innovations and regulatory changes. Aviation trade fairs provide networking opportunities, showcase the latest technologies, and allow professionals to engage with industry leaders.

 2. When should I book my trade fair accommodation?

We recommend booking accommodation several months in advance, as hotels and rentals near event venues fill up quickly. Aviation trade fairs attract thousands of attendees, including exhibitors, business delegates, and media representatives, leading to a high demand for lodging. Booking early ensures a wider selection of accommodations, better pricing, and the convenience of staying closer to the venue. Late bookings often result in limited choices, higher costs, and the risk of staying farther from the event, which can add travel time and inconvenience. Some hotels and serviced apartments also offer special rates or packages for trade fair attendees, making early reservations even more beneficial. The easiest way to secure suitable lodgings is to use a professional business accommodation agency like Fair Point . Our many connections and partner networks ensure we can cater to your needs.

3. What type of accommodation is best for trade fairs?

The best accommodation depends on your needs. Business hotels, serviced apartments, and short-term rentals are all viable options depending on budget and convenience. Business hotels are ideal for professionals seeking comfort, business amenities, and proximity to the trade fair venue. They often offer high-speed Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, and concierge services tailored for business travellers. Serviced apartments provide more space, kitchen facilities, and a homely environment, making them a great option for longer stays or groups travelling together. Short-term rentals, such as Airbnb properties, can be cost-effective and offer flexibility in location and amenities. Choosing the right accommodation type depends on the travel budget, length of stay, and the need for business-related amenities. We have a very comprehensive guide on the topic that can help you understand the most important amenities that business travellers need to look for.

4. How can I find affordable lodging near aviation trade fairs?

Booking early, considering shared accommodations, and using business travel services can help secure cost-effective lodging. Searching for hotels or serviced apartments well in advance ensures access to lower prices and a wider selection of options. Comparing prices on multiple booking platforms and looking for discounts or promotional rates can also reduce costs. Opting for accommodations slightly farther from the venue but with good public transport connections can provide savings without sacrificing convenience.

Attending aviation trade fairs provides invaluable business opportunities, but careful planning, including securing suitable trade fair accommodation, is vital for a seamless experience. Whether in Europe, Asia, or the Americas, ensuring convenient lodging enhances productivity and networking opportunities during these prestigious industry events. By following strategic accommodation booking practices, attendees can optimize their experience and make the most of these influential gatherings.