The fifth edition of Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2018, held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, vice chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, opened yesterday at Al Bateen Executive Airport.

The three-day event, which runs from February 26 to 28, will focus on the advancements and innovations made in the field of aerospace technology, and bring together leading officials from the business aviation community.

Sheikh Hazza, alongside his delegation of senior dignitaries, toured the exhibition and met several officials from the participating parties, and was briefed about the latest innovations and developments in private jet aircraft, helicopters, executive charter services, airport equipment and services, avionics systems, insurance and financing as showcased by more than 300 local and international manufacturers and suppliers.

He also witnessed the spectacular display of more than 100 state-of-the-art aircrafts, ranging from ultra-light to heavy business jets, and other aerial delights that defy the boundaries of modern technology.

Sheikh Hazza commented on the efforts spent on delivering such an event at high level of organization aiming at strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in the aviation industry within the region and internationally, as well as the efforts and commitment of the sponsors and supporters of this event.

The Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2018 attracted the participation and attendance of various governmental and private entities, representing the full spectrum of the business and general aviation sectors.

The exhibition, which is organised by Abu Dhabi Airports, is the ideal platform for aircraft enthusiasts and businesses searching for the best airplanes and aviation-related services.

The biggest aviation event in the capital is being held in partnership with Abu Dhabi Aviation and Al Futtaim Motors, the chosen diamond sponsors, Etihad Airways, the official Carrier for Abu Dhabi Air Expo 2018, and the official sponsor of the expo the Department of Transport (DOT). Atlas Security and TAV-CCC-Arabtec joint Venture will be joining the show as Pearl Sponsors, and Profire Security Consultants as the Support Sponsor. With such strong support from key entities, the show is poised to be a major coup for Abu Dhabi as the emirate continues to transition into a diversified aviation hub in line with the Abu Dhabi economic vision 2030.

The Abu Dhabi Air Expo also raised the curtains on the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Heli Expo, showcasing all that the helicopter industry has to offer. Attendees met with representatives from leading manufacturers, distributors and support companies, and utilized the opportunity to get up close to a range of helicopters.

Abdul Majeed Al Khoori, Acting CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The buzz generated from the fifth cycle of the Abu Dhabi Air Expo nationwide, has been phenomenal. It reflects the growth and development in performance within the aviation industry across all its sectors, and in-line with the increased demand in its dynamic market. To accommodate such popularity, the show has adopted a new layout, wherein the 60,000 square meters of space has been allocated to an aircraft hangar, chalets, and an outdoor static display."

He added: “We’re expecting an excess of 18,000 attendees over the three-day period. I believe this show is growing exponentially from each edition because we offer an unparalleled opportunity for aviation leaders to engage in dialogue with potential partners, which enables growth of businesses and an exchange of experience and knowledge." - TradeArabia News Service