The Aero Friedrichshafen general aviation show kicked off today in Germany. The event, held from the 2-5 April, is Europe's largest general aviation gathering and its popularity has persuaded the show organisers to transform Aero from a biannual to an annual event.
Flying in the face of the global economic meltdown, organisers have reported a 12% increase in exhibitors - 625 companies from 27 countries, a 20% hike in floor space and expectation of record-breaking visitor numbers - smashing the 45,000 turnout in 2007. Several leading business and general aviation airframers are out in force, notably Cirrus, Cessna, Diamond and Embraer, which despite the exceptional economic circumstances are all hoping to increase their share of this lucrative - albeit strained - market.
According to Aero there are nearly 200,000 aircraft and gliders in Europe. Of these, around 50,000 are GA types powered with piston or jet engines and up to 200,000 ultralight aircraft and gliders.
Source: Flight International
