Bahrain International Airshow 2024 takes to the air
Aerospace sector swoops into Manama
The Bahrain International Airshow 2024, taking place from November 13 to 15, is proving to be one of the most spectacular aerospace events of the year and a key global platform for the aviation and defence industries.
This year’s flying display at the bi-annual airshow with Farnborough International features over 80 different types of aircraft. Visitors can see some of the world’s most advanced aviation technology and engineering marvels. Each afternoon, the skies over Sakhir Airbase come alive with precision flying and technical feats, showcasing aircraft from some of the leading air forces, airlines, and aerospace manufacturers worldwide.
Among the highlights of this year’s flying display are performances from the Royal Bahrain Air Force, featuring a range of aircraft such as the F-5 fighter jet, Bell 212 helicopter, RJ85, Cobra, and Blackhawk.
A US Air Force B-52 bomber is of great interest, as it is the first time the long-range strategic bomber is being exhibited publicly in the Middle East region. The Royal Saudi Air Force also presents the Saudi Hawks aerobatic team and their Typhoon and F-15SA fighters. Other notable displays include the UAE Ministry of Defence’s F-16 and Mirage 2000-9 fighters, the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17, and the Indian Air Force’s Sarang Display Team.
Gulf Air is also participating, showcasing its state-of-the-art B787-9 aircraft. Visitors can also see commercial and private aircraft, including an Emirates A380, Air Arabia’s A320, and Gulfstream’s G500 and G700 jets.
Static aircraft display
In addition to the daily air displays, the boutique airshow in Manama features an extensive static aircraft display, with 86,000 square metres dedicated to showcasing aircraft, from commercial airliners to cutting-edge military jets.
Notable aircraft in the static display include a DHL B76-300 freighter, the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F15SA, and various helicopters and cargo planes from Texel Air and Wallan Aviation.
The airshow also serves as a critical event for the aerospace and defence sectors to come together and discuss pressing issues affecting the industry.
Following the success of the conference programme in 2022, this year’s event hosts two days of insightful discussions on critical topics such as sustainability, technological innovation, and the future of space operations.
The conference segment will focus on four key themes: Airlines and airports, Space, Defence, and Diversity and inclusion. It will also include STEM workshops to inspire the next generation of industry leaders.
Discussion topics include the emerging role of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) in the EMEA region, advancements in space law, international collaboration for space debris removal, and initiatives to accelerate gender equality in aviation and aerospace sectors.
Speakers’ lineup
These discussions are led by a lineup of speakers, including industry leaders from Gulf Air, Airbus, Emirates, Lockheed Martin, IATA, and the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).
Key speakers include Jeffrey Goh, CEO of Gulf Air Group; Usman Mastan of Airbus; and Shannon Scott, Vice President of Sustainability and Environment at Emirates.
Dr James Wang, Director of the eVTOL Research and Innovation Centre; and Marina Evans, General Director of Voltaero; are addressing innovations in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technologies.
The airshow’s exhibition area spans over 10,000 square metres, with exhibitors including major industry players like Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, Thales, BAE Systems, and Leonardo.
With more than 40 luxury chalets and a roster of global exhibitors, the airshow provides ample opportunities for networking, business development, and collaboration. The airshow has drawn leaders from the aerospace, defence, and space industries, all eager to exchange ideas and showcase the latest advancements in their fields.
As Bahrain continues establishing itself as a hub for aerospace and defence in the Middle East, the Bahrain International Airshow 2024 is a pivotal event for industry professionals, government officials, and aviation enthusiasts alike. The combination of aerial displays, cutting-edge technologies, and high-level conferences ensures that the airshow remains one of the Middle East region’s premier events for innovation and collaboration in the aerospace sector.
The Bahrain International Airshow 2024 dates overlap those of the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, or Airshow China 2024, held in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, from November 12 to 17.
Featured image: The Bahrain International Airshow 2024 takes place from November 13 to 15 at Sakhir Airbase in Manama. Credit: Farnborough International
Last Updated on 4 weeks by Arnold Pinto
