Records, Firsts, Growth: AERO 2026 Showcases the Strength of General Aviation

The 32nd edition of AERO, the world’s leading trade show for general aviation, business aviation, and air sports, has achieved record-breaking milestones. A total of 860 exhibitors from 50 countries participated, marking the highest exhibitor count in the event’s history. Visitor numbers also increased significantly, with approximately 37,000 attendees from 88 countries over the four-day event, surpassing the previous year’s figure of 32,100. The international representation of exhibitors (54%) and visitors (55%) underscores the global significance of the trade show.

Philipp Ferger, CEO of Fairnamic GmbH, the event organizer, stated, “AERO 2026 was a trade show of records and premieres. AERO’s steady growth in recent years is the result of positive market trends and the AERO team’s customer-focused industry dialogue.” Tobias Bretzel, AERO Show Director, added, “The fact that exhibitors from all segments of general and business aviation are presenting their innovations to trade visitors and the general public for the first time in Friedrichshafen demonstrates the global relevance of this trade show. With over 550 accredited media representatives, half of whom came from abroad, AERO 2026 was also a global media event.”

Business Aviation Growth and Aircraft Highlights

Business aviation experienced the highest growth rate among industry segments this year. The Business Aviation Dome in the Static Display expanded its floor space by 50% compared to the previous year, reflecting this growth. Exhibitors occupied Hall A1, the largest hall at Friedrichshafen exhibition grounds, as well as Halls A2 and parts of A3. AERO offered visitors the unique opportunity to compare a wide range of business aircraft, including ultra-long-range jets like the Bombardier Global 6500 and Dassault Aviation Falcon 6X, light jets, single- and twin-engine turboprops, piston aircraft, LSA, ultralight aircraft, and helicopters.

Notable premieres included the Cessna Citation Ascend midsize business jet from Textron Aviation, displayed at a European airshow for the first time, and the Cessna SkyCourier, a twin-engine turboprop multi-purpose aircraft, also making its European debut. Daher Aircraft showcased its TBM 980 and Kodiak 900 single-engine turboprops outside the U.S. for the first time.

World Premieres and Innovations

Kaelin Aerospace Technologies unveiled the B-100C, a single-engine tandem-seat training aircraft, while Promecc Aerospace debuted its high-speed ultralight aircraft, the Terrone. Cirrus Aircraft presented updated versions of its SR piston plane family and the Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet personal jet, all equipped with Garmin’s Emergency Autoland System, which automatically lands the aircraft at the nearest suitable airfield during emergencies.

Business Deals and Sustainable Aviation

Several business deals were announced during AERO. Hamburg-based executive aviation company Luminair revealed an order for nine Cessna Citation Latitude business jets during AERO Media Day. Tecnam showcased numerous orders for training aircraft from flight schools. Other manufacturers reported sales and scheduled test flights.

AERO also served as an incubator for sustainable aviation projects, primarily displayed in Hall A7. The Innovation Stage featured high-profile speakers discussing electric and hybrid aircraft, hydrogen propulsion systems, and airport energy infrastructure upgrades. AERO 2026 demonstrated that the future of aviation is quiet, low-emission, and affordable.

Career Development and Future Events

The AERO Career Days on April 24 and 25 connected young aviation enthusiasts with potential employers. Presentations on aviation careers generated significant interest and highlighted future opportunities.

Looking ahead, 2027 will feature four AERO trade shows worldwide: Friedrichshafen (April 14–17), AERO South Africa (June), AERO Asia in Zhuhai, China (November 11–14), and AERO Middle East at Al Thurmamah Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (December 7–11).