Under the patronage of His Majesty and King, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, opened the show for visiting CEOs of participating companies, heads of delegations, ministers and other dignitaries.
Airshow organisers Bahrain Ministry of Transportation and the Royal Bahraini Airforce in partnership with Farnborough International Limited have confirmed that the show has experienced an almost 50% increase in participating companies compared to last show with over 100 aerospace businesses participating at the show representing 32 countries including the US, UAE, Turkey, Germany, France, the Russian Federation, Egypt, India and China.
Today, the show saw significant announcements from the Bahrain Airport Company, Aero-Gulf, Gulf Air and Bombardier who confirmed the sale of 16 of its CS300 aircraft with an option for a further 10 to new airline Saudi Gulf. The show also marked the beginning of Great British Week and saw British Ambassador, Iain Lindsay, and Philip Hammond, MP attending the show.
Central to the day’s events was the impressive 4 hours flying display comprising aerobatic display teams and military fast jets. Aircraft on display included the Breitling Wingwalkers, The Twisters, The Russian Knights, UAE Al Fursan and the Saudi Hawks. As part of Great British week, spectators also get to enjoy two examples of British aviation excellence – the historic RAF Spitfire and the modern Typhoon.
“We have seen the full range of new aircraft and related services, both commercial and defence, that define this industry here in Bahrain today. As the first day of the Airshow has so clearly demonstrated, there is a wealth of opportunities in aviation, and it is an industry that continues to grow, develop and evolve,” at the Gala Dinner held at the Bahrain National Museum, Engineer Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, Minister of Transportation and acting Chief Executive of the Economic Development Board said.
“Now in its third edition, the show has built a reputation as a commercially-focused event for Aerospace Industry and is a real boost to the Kingdom’s status as a centre for commerce. We are delighted that business during the first day has gone well,” Amanda Stainer, Commercial Director at Farnborough International also added.