While the exhibitors are putting the finishing touches to their stands and exhibitions, it is yet another day in the office for the pilots in the flying display.
The couple of days leading up to the official opening are for rehearsals...when the pilots from all over the world have to prove to the powers that be that their displays comply with all the myriad regulations and that they are, above all, safe.
But make no mistake - despite the concentration on safety, there is no lack of spectacular flying.
As well as tricky weather conditions, the display pilots have to cope with the proximity of Charles de Gaulle airport just a few kilometres up the road.
As this is Paris, the French participants are given pride of place in the show, with the Dassault slot lasting not far short of 30 minutes. With President Jacques Chirac visiting the show yesterday, the emphasis on his country's products is not too surprising.
Stars of the show? That will be for you to decide, but the Dassault Mirage 2000-5 and the pair of Rafales (CO1 and B) take some beating, while the Sukhoi Su-32FN is making its first appearance outside Russia.
Watch out too for a brace of debutantes, including the Yakovlev/Aermacchi Yak/AEM-130 and the NH Industries NH90 helicopter.
Whatever, the show is bound to have something for everyone. Don't miss it!
Source: Flight Daily News
