The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) has announced its sponsorship of the third biannual Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS), which opens tomorrow (January 16) at the Sakhir Air Base.

The event, organised by the Ministry of Transportation and Royal Bahrain Air Force, under supervision of HM the King’s personal representative and head of the Supreme Organising Committee of BIAS, Shaikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa, is set to be the biggest yet, offering a combination of exclusive networking and investment opportunities for global and regional businesses and exciting sights for families and aviation enthusiasts.

Kamal bin Ahmed, Minister of Transportation and acting chief executive of the Bahrain EDB, said: “The Bahrain International Airshow is one of the most important events in the Kingdom’s calendar that reflects Bahrain’s position as a leading business and financial hub at the heart of the Gulf.

“International investors looking to access the $1.5 trillion Gulf market are looking for a location that provides excellent connectivity across the region. This event provides an opportunity to showcase Bahrain’s unparalleled regional connectivity by road, sea, and air. It also enables us to welcome leading transport and logistics businesses to Bahrain – sectors that have seen rapid expansion in recent years.”

Amongst the high level industry participants confirmed to attend BIAS are leading manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier, Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky Aircraft. Other international companies participating include Qatar Airways; BAE Systems; Thales Group; Sukhoi Civil Aircraft from Russia; France’s Morpho (Safron); Lufthansa Technic from Germany; India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO); Tawazun Holding from Abu Dhabi; TAG Aeronautics and Saudi Airlines from Saudi Arabia. – TradeArabia News Service