Aero Friedrichshafen, the biggest general aviation event in Europe, opened today with 645 exhibitors, a new record for the show, representing 38 countries. The show, held in the country’s southernmost region adjacent to a regional airline and GA airport — and a lofty Zeppelin hangar — attracts thousands of visitors, pilots and aviation enthusiasts, and hosts a wide range of industry meetings and events. This year, the business aviation sector is growing, and the small static display just outside the convention area is crowded with business jets, turboprops and helicopters. Inside, the diversity of GA in Europe is represented by an array of gyrocopters, sport aircraft, seaplanes, gliders, and a strong presence from U.S. aviation companies as well. The show also spotlights new and innovative technology, with electric aircraft and unmanned aerial systems taking center stage at the main entrance to the convention center.
Several aircraft are making their debut at the show following a recent first flight. Diamond’s powerful-looking DA-50 JP7 single-engine turboprop, which first flew in January, is here on display, as well as Flight Design’s C4 four-seat airplane, which just flew last week. The Atol amphibian, built in Finland, also arrived fresh from its first flight. Pipistrel will introduce its new electric trainer, Alpha Electro, today, ready to start sales, and the Rue Xiang RX1E, a Chinese electric airplane that is reportedly soon to start production, is on display in the e-flight expo. The show also is launching a “Be a pilot” campaign this year, which aims to inspire people to learn to fly or pursue an aviation career. The event is now in its 23rd year, and will run through Saturday.
