In February 2014 the industry will gather in Singapore for the fourth edition of the Singapore air show. Jimmy Lau, the managing director of show organiser Experia Events, explains what lies in store for Asia's largest aerospace gathering

The show has managed to keep its nose ahead of the rest to call itself Asia's largest aerospace exhibition, what is this success down to?

With a proven track record of translating opportunities into real ROIs [returns on investments] for exhibitors and partners, Singapore air show has established itself as Asia's largest and one of the three most important aerospace and defence exhibitions in the world. Its continued ability to attract high-level government and military officials as well as leading industry players from across the world reinforces the show's status as a networking hub and global marketplace, and is one of the key factors that differentiate it from other air shows. The airshow is also fortunate to enjoy strong support and backing from the Singapore government and associated agencies.

Jimmy LauAs an illustration, 2012 was the third edition of the biennial show and its biggest ever, setting a record value of deals and announcements worth over US$31 billion, a threefold increase over the total value of deals announced in 2010.

How big is the show going to be in 2014 and how does this compare to the last event held in 2012?

Singapore Airshow 2012 attracted nearly 45,000 trade attendees from 134 countries/regions with over 30% coming from overseas. There were also 274 delegations from 70 countries. We are expecting these figures to increase next year and the team is working very hard to make Singapore Airshow 2014 even bigger and better than before.

As a testament to the show's achievements, over 80% of exhibitors have already reaffirmed their commitment to take up exhibition space in 2014.

We hope to continue to draw more top exhibitors and high level delegations, not just from Asia-Pacific but from around the world, and continue to be the leading platform for companies to strike new deals, spearhead developments in their field and translate opportunities into real and robust ROIs. The strong participation of 60% of the top 100 aviation companies affirms Singapore air show's significance in the global aerospace and defence industry calendar.

What plans for improvement and development do you have for Singapore air show 2014?

Singapore air show is all about staying relevant in the industry and we ensure this by continually putting out new platforms, conferences and special feature pavilions covering different sectors of the industry and reflecting the latest trends in aviation.

To enhance the experience of our exhibitors and visitors, the fourth edition of Singapore air show will introduce several new highlights: The new Aviation Security Zone, showcasing cutting-edge security innovations, will explore the future of aviation security and present trailblazing technologies, systems and capabilities that will define airport and aviation security in the 21st century. In recognition of the fast-growing aviation training market in the Asia-Pacific region, the Aviation Training Zone will feature the latest aviation training programmes and technologies to meet the manpower and training demands of a new generation of pilots and technicians.

What co-located events are planned for 2014?

Singapore Airshow 2014 will once again feature high-level conferences such as the Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit (SAALS) and the Asia-Pacific Security Conference (APSEC), which provide delegates with an opportunity to hear from industry leaders and experts on trends and challenges in aviation.

2014 marks the beginning of the second century of commercial aviation. As we embark on this second century of commercial flight, Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit (SAALS) 2014 will discuss the regulatory support needed to allow aviation to deliver its full potential, while growing global connectivity in a sustainable manner. The summit will again bring together key global stakeholders in aviation including airlines, aircraft manufacturers, airport operators, regulators and senior government officials to exchange valuable insights, network and engage in solutions-based discourse.

The Asia Pacific Security Conference (APSEC) will gather high-level delegations from around the world to engage in discussions on shaping peace worldwide. Since its inception in 2002 the conference has not only succeeded in drawing expert speakers from around the world, it has also grown to be an important event that is highly valued by defence officials, military personnel, academics, analysts and industry leaders from around the world.

What other events are taking place alongside Singapore air show to offer more value to visitors?

It will not be all work and no play at Singapore air show. There will be a breath-taking array of aerial displays to showcase the capabilities of various aircraft and delight audiences. There will also be a host of entertainment activities planned for the public during the two public days.

Some of the highlights include: Green Pavilion; Business Forums (China and Asia); Static Aircraft Display; Aerobatic Flying Displays; Customer Demonstration Flights; Education Day; and Co-located Events.

What are the prospects for growth in aviation in the Asia-Pacific region for 2014?

Despite global economic uncertainty, demand for global air travel continues to rise on economic optimism and improved business. According to IATA, the world's airlines are expected to transport more than three billion passengers this year, equivalent to around 44% of the world's population, and 48 million tonnes of cargo - representing around 35% of world trade by value. Aviation today supports 3.5% of global GDP, equivalent to $2.2 trillion annually.

IATA forecasts that the Asia-Pacific region will contribute 33% of global passenger traffic by 2016, with China accounting for nearly one in four additional passengers. In addition, Asia-Pacific airlines are expected to post a combined profit of $4.6 billion in 2013, up from the previous projection of $4.2 billion, leading growth in the region.

Some say the industry has too many shows, is that a fair comment, or is the demand still strong for face-to-face business events?

A: Singapore air show continues to successfully deliver a strong showing of Asia-Pacific buyers and exhibitors, both in the military and civil aviation arenas. The steady growth in attendance year on year at Singapore Airshow is a testament to the relevance and importance of such face-to-face business events to the market.

Many of the shows also have a strong regional focus and relevance. With the Asia-Pacific region fast becoming the focus of growth and new opportunities in the aviation industry, we are confident that Singapore Airshow will continue to be an important platform for major players from across the aviation spectrum to forge partnerships and do business in this thriving region.

Source: Flight Daily News

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