FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany – AERO Friedrichshafen (April 2–5, 2009) features the full spectrum of the general aviation industry. AERO Project Manager Thomas Grunewald reported a 20 percent rise in exhibitor bookings compared to the same period for AERO 2007. The event includes everything from parachuting and paragliding, ultralights, gliders, and motorized gliders to single and twin border aircraft and business jets. This year the show also introduces debuts of helicopters and the "E-Flight-Expo."
The clearly double-digit increase in bookings for AERO 2009 in these turbulent economic times reflects both a rise in the number of exhibitors and an increase in the amount of exhibition space booked. For the first time ever, AERO 2009 will take place in ten instead of seven halls. Project Manager Thomas Grunewald is particularly impressed with the rising number of bookings from Eastern Europe.
The Czech Republic has shown the strongest growth in exhibitor numbers, but there has also been a sharp rise in interest from the US. In addition to a large number of new exhibitors like Hawker Beechcraft, major manufacturers such as Cessna, Cirrus, Diamond, Embraer, Pilatus, and Piper are once again planning to significantly increase their presence at AERO.
"In these turbulent times, it is evidently important for most customers to maintain their marketing efforts in order to create a basis for future growth," says Grunewald. "AERO is a modern and effective marketing tool and we are delighted to see that it continues to be so well received."
According to the EU, there are nearly 200,000 motorized aircraft and gliders in Europe. The general aviation sector has some 50,000 aircraft with piston engines or jet propulsion and as many as 200,000 ultralights and gliders. Germany is by far the global market leader in the construction of gliders of all classes. In view of this strong economic base, AERO will be held on an annual basis starting in 2009.
In addition to its central location, the air show owes much of its success to the supporting conference program – the Aero Conference. The list of speakers includes the new EuroControl Director General, David McMillan – Dr. Norbert Lohl, Certification Director of the European Aviation Safety Agency, EASA – the newly elected president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, AOPA, Craig L. Fuller – and Alan Klapmeier of General Aviation Manufacturers Association, GAMA. Back in July 2008, trade show organizers forged a strategic partnership with the Experimental Aircraft Association, EAA, from the US, a move which will be underscored by the visit of EAA President Tom Poberezny in 2009. In keeping with the tradition of the past two decades, AERO 2009 will again be held under the auspices of AOPA Germany and the Deutscher Aero Club. The German Helicopter Association, the Association of German Commercial Flight Schools, and the German Federation of General Aviation Companies will also be represented.
The issue of "greener" aviation will be the focus of the E-Flight-Expo, which will be presented for the first time as a "show within the trade show." Displays will include aircraft with electric motors, new solar technology, products by high-end battery manufacturers, and innovative propulsion concepts.
For more information on AERO 2009 visit www.aero-expo.de.
