News

Farnborough Airshow to axe public weekend

6 Mar 2019 by Jenni Reid
Concorde at Farnborough International Airshow in 1976. Credit: Farnborough International Airshow via Facebook

Farnborough International Airshow, one of the world’s biggest aerospace events, will no longer hold the public weekend that traditionally takes place at the end of the five day trade event.

In a Facebook post, organisers said the “decision had not been taken lightly,” but that “the world has changed and our show needs to evolve to ensure we continue to represent the global aerospace industry in the appropriate way.”

A spokesperson told the BBC that the 2015 Shoreham Airshow crash had “expedited” the decision, along with a “dwindling number” of spectators. The spokesperson also said organisers feel they can “no longer provide an airshow the public want.”

After last year’s show, some visitors complained of high ticket prices, organisational issues and less exciting aircraft displays.

Instead of a public weekend, the Airshow says it will allow “talented young people” into the show on the Friday for a technology showcase.

Responses on Twitter and Facebook were generally critical of the decision, with some describing the event as the place where they found a passion for aviation.

The show takes place every two years. In 2018 it hosted more than 1,500 exhibitors, with $192bn worth of deals taking place.

Gareth Rogers, CEO of Farnborough International, said: “The Farnborough International Airshow is a unique event. Allowing the public to see more of the people, products and processes that underpin the global aerospace, defence and space industries will help engage and inspire a new generation.

“Removing the public weekend will disappoint some, but for our exhibitors and trade visitors the focus is on business and accessing the talent they need to sustain global competitiveness.”

farnboroughairshow.com

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