Farnborough International Air Show

Air shows are events where the general public, industry press, military, or other groups of people can come together to survey the latest advances in aviation technology.  Throughout the year, many air shows are held, for various audiences.

Public Air Shows

Some air shows are purely for the exhibition of aircraft to the public, and often only include aircraft or aircraft technologies which have been publically announced or produced.  These could be commercial or military.  One is likely to see a wide variety of aircraft on display and can often take a tour of the aircraft interior and cockpit.  Many such air shows are held around the world every year! If you live in the Washington, D.C. Metro area, you too can attend an air show at Andrews Air Force Base. The air show is held annually, and is open to the public. You may learn more by clicking HERE (External Link).

Military Air Shows

Military Air Shows are generally held for the defense industry, and may include foreign military aircraft as well.  For example, a military air show may be a forum for foreign governments to sample and possibly place orders for military aircraft that the United States is willing to sell to it's Allies.  Increasingly, the defense industries of several countries come together to leverage their strengths to produce military aircraft.

Aviation Industry Air Shows

Aviation Industry Air Shows are usually a blend of both Public and Military Air shows.  Meaning, there is an exhibition component, but significant business is also conducted at the show itself.  For example, an airline may place orders for the latest aircraft after getting a chance to see a demonstration and an opportunity to view the interior of a brand new product offering, such as the Boeing 787 Dreamliner (External Link) which has yet to enter commercial service.

The Farnborough International Air Show is the world's largest Air show.  Anybody who is anybody in the commercial aviation business is present.  At the 2010 show held outside London, Steven F. Udvar Hazy's new company Air Lease Corp. placed the largest order--136 new aircraft valued in excess of US$10 billion!