GEOFF THOMAS
As the show gets under way, preparations for the 2002 edition of its British counterpart are already in train.
The next Farnborough Show is scheduled for 24-30 July, at its usual site among the pinewoods of Hampshire in southern England.
At the record-breaking 2000 event exhibitors unveiled orders worth $26.7 billion. While the organisers will be hoping for a similar level of activity at next year's show, it may be remembered as the one that allowed visitors, for the first time ever, to fly in and land on a main runway that will remain open for the duration.
Sadly, this means that the flying display will be curtailed to between two and two-and-a-half hours compared with the four hours of past years.
David Norriss, director of marketing and business development for the show organisers the Society of British Aerospace Companies (SBAC), explains: "In response to exhibitor feedback, the flying display will concentrate on activities relevant to the marketing efforts of the exhibitors and the industry. This will reduce both the environmental impact on the community and the impact of ATC restrictions."
The sale of Farnborough airfield by the UK's Ministry of Defence to TAG Aviation will be concluded with the signing of a 99-year lease in January 2003. A concurrent sub-lease with the SBAC will give the show organisers unprecedented security of tenure.
The airfield is currently being developed as a major business aircraft hub for the south of England. New air traffic control facilities will support the efficient running of the air display while SBAC investment will provide for an enhanced power supply dedicated to the show site.
Source: Flight Daily News
