AERO Friedrichshafen 2026, which will take place from April 22 to 25 at the Messe Friedrichshafen exhibition grounds in Germany, is on track to become the largest edition of the event so far. Organizers are announcing a record number of exhibitors, a stronger business aviation presence, an expanded static aircraft display, and a richer program for both industry professionals and the general public, with a particular focus on Saturday as a dedicated visitor and family day.
According to the latest announcements, around 820 exhibitors from more than 50 countries will take part in AERO 2026, allowing the show to surpass all previous benchmarks. Fairnamic also points out that industry interest is not slowing down, but continuing to grow. Alongside a large number of new products and premieres, the segment’s especially strong presence is expected to stand out, with business aviation once again taking a prominent place in both the program and exhibition areas.
Business aviation will be showcased in the Business Aviation Dome, which is larger than last year, as well as in Hall A1, with the participation of numerous national and international partners and industry associations. Organizers emphasize that AERO is not just an exhibition venue but also a platform for networking, discussing the regulatory environment and future industry challenges, and attending expert conferences and presentations by leading figures from across the sector.
The show will once again bring together the full spectrum of general aviation, business aviation, and air sports. In addition to business aircraft, visitors will be able to see ultralight aircraft, helicopters, single and twin engine piston aircraft, training and touring aircraft, as well as advanced avionics, services, and pilot equipment. Among the confirmed major manufacturers in the light aircraft segment are Cirrus Aircraft, Textron Aviation, Tecnam, Diamond Aircraft, Piper Aircraft, Elixir Aircraft, and Extra Aircraft.
A strong emphasis will again be placed on sustainability this year. More than 100 companies have registered for the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail, where they will present products and solutions aimed at a more sustainable future for aviation. In doing so, the organizers further underline that electric flight, new propulsion technologies, and the broader concept of sustainable aviation remain among the key themes of this year’s edition.
One of AERO Friedrichshafen’s distinctive features remains the exhibition center’s infrastructure, which allows direct access to Lake Constance Airport. Thanks to this setup, exhibitors can taxi their aircraft directly from the airport to the outdoor static display or into the exhibition halls. The static display itself will be expanded further in 2026, with organizers stating that it will feature 35 aircraft, more than ever before.
A new feature of this year’s edition is the introduction of structured Guided Tours, designed to help visitors navigate the large exhibition more efficiently and to allow them to focus on specific topics. In small groups and under expert guidance, participants will be able to join tours dedicated to sustainable aviation, innovative propulsion systems, trade show innovations, and career opportunities in business aviation. In this way, AERO is further strengthening its role not only as an exhibition platform, but also as an educational and business event.
Saturday, April 25, will be especially highlighted as a day for the wider public and families, with the traditional airshow taking center stage. This year’s flying display will be expanded and more spectacular than before. The program will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and will open with the Flying Bones parachute team. They will be followed by Nico and Ralf Niebergall, father and son, who will perform close formation flying in two Siai Marchetti SF 260 aircraft. The finale will be reserved for the Flying Bulls, with pilot Mirko Flaim demonstrating the capabilities of the BO 105 helicopter through aerobatic maneuvers rarely seen even at major international airshows. A meet and greet with the pilots will follow on the Business Aviation Dome Stage.
This year, the organizers also want to bring the show closer to younger audiences by introducing new formats aimed at digitally engaged aviation enthusiasts. On Saturday, the Innovation Stage will host Creator Panels featuring well known names from the world of aviation social media and digital content. Scheduled participants include Pascal from AeroNewsGermany, TV presenter Kira Ortmann, the hosts of the Cockpit Diaries podcast, pilot Raja Katz together with the elevate.her initiative, flying_manon, Pilot Frank, and Diana and Dirk Drees from Apfelkuchenflugzeugbau. A meet and greet with visitors will take place after the sessions.
A specially designed Kids Area will also be available for younger visitors, while discounted family tickets priced at 39 euros will be offered at the ticket counters on Saturday. In addition, a free shuttle bus service from selected hotels in Lindau, Ravensburg, and Überlingen will be introduced for the first time, making access to the show even easier.
Visitors will also have access to the official AERO app, through which they can follow the daily program, browse the exhibitor directory, use the interactive hall map, and access updated information about the aircraft displayed at the show. Organizers had previously also announced a ticket discount for purchases made through the app, further encouraging visitors to plan their trip in advance.
Overall, AERO 2026 in Friedrichshafen is being positioned as the largest and most content rich edition yet of Europe’s leading general aviation trade show. A record number of exhibitors, an expanded static and flying program, a strong focus on sustainability, and new content for younger audiences all indicate that this year’s AERO will be a major meeting point for the industry, pilots, operators, and aviation enthusiasts from around the world.
