India to host international aviation trade fair at Begumpet
31 Dec 2007
New Delhi: India will soon host an integrated air show, which will feature all aspects of the aviation industry, at the soon to be decommissioned Begumpet airport in the southern Indian state capital of Hyderabad. Begumpet will be phased out of service with the inauguration of the city's new international airport in March of the coming year.
According to ministry of aviation sources, the airport will likely host a ''comprehensive trade fair'' once every two years, covering all aspects of the aviation industry. The ministry has tied up with the Farnborough International and industry trade body Ficci for the organisation of the fair.
Farnborough International also organises the prestigious air show of the same name in the UK.
The ministry would like to tap into the massive interest in the Indian aviation sector, even as it registers the highest rates of growth in terms of passenger traffic, aircraft sales and aerospace component manufacture.
The first "India Aviation 2008" show is likely to be hosted from October 15-18. The event will have components like flying display, exhibitions and customer demonstration flights. The show would be designed to provide a single window opportunity for investors and customers and would be supported by the aviation ministry, Air India, DGCA and Pawan Hans.
Farnborough International will promote the show globally.
The exhibitors are likely to feature from areas such as aircraft; aircraft equipment; interiors, air cargo, airlines, airport infrastructure and skill development.