Europe's leading trade fair for general aviation
The AERO in Friedrichshafen is the most important trade fair for general aviation in Europe. Every year, manufacturers, associations, flight schools, avionics suppliers and service providers present their latest innovations in piston aircraft, turboprops, business aviation, microlight aircraft, eVTOL concepts and, increasingly, sustainable propulsion technologies.
With several hundred exhibitors and tens of thousands of visitors, the trade fair has long been more than just a meeting place for the industry; it is also a political and regulatory forum. Topics such as alternative fuels (SAF), electrification, digitalisation of the cockpit, airspace structure and regulatory developments are regularly discussed here.
For many pilots, the approach to Friedrichshafen itself is an experience - the view over Lake Constance and the special atmosphere of the exhibition aerodrome make the visit unique.
Travelling with your own plane: slot system proves its worth
As in previous years, it is essential to reserve a slot in advance if you are travelling by your own aircraft. Due to the high volume of traffic during the trade fair, flight operations at Friedrichshafen Airport will be tightly synchronised.
Slots are allocated via an online reservation system. This is organised in two phases:
Firstly, interested pilots can register as users. The system has already been activated, so registration is now possible. No specific arrival or departure times are booked at this stage, only user accounts are created.
In a second step, the system will inform registered users as soon as the binding booking phase begins. From mid-March 2026, specific arrival and departure slots can then be reserved and paid for directly.
Block-based allocation has proven to be practicable in recent years. It ensures an even distribution of traffic and reduces waiting times in the air and on the ground.
Traffic management during the trade fair
During the AERO, Friedrichshafen Airport regularly becomes one of the busiest GA airports in Europe. In addition to IFR and VFR traffic, business jets, demonstration flights and trade fair exhibits also have to be coordinated.
Experience has shown that with:
- special approach procedures
- published trade fair information via AIP Supplement
- temporary parking arrangements
- clearly defined taxi and parking zones
to be expected. Pilots should check the relevant publications in good time and familiarise themselves with possible restrictions. Especially for VFR approaches, holding patterns or delays may occur if slot times are not adhered to exactly.
Pilot package with trade fair ticket
An additional incentive for travelling by plane is the so-called pilot package. This includes a free day ticket for the trade fair for the pilot in charge. Additional tickets can be booked as standard.
The AERO is an ideal joint excursion for many owner associations or flying clubs. Especially in spring, the trade fair marks the unofficial start of the flying season for many crews.
Early planning recommended
Experience shows that coveted slots - especially on the main trade fair days Thursday and Friday - are quickly booked up. Travelling flexibly or using off-peak times increases the chances of finding a suitable time slot.
Hotel capacities around Friedrichshafen are also heavily utilised during the trade fair. Early booking of accommodation is therefore advisable, as is timely registration in the slot system.
AERO 2026 as a showcase for the industry
In terms of content, a broad spectrum of innovations can once again be expected. In addition to classic piston aircraft, the focus will increasingly be on hybrid and electric propulsion systems. Manufacturers of avionics systems regularly present new generations of integrated glass cockpits, while training organisations showcase innovative training concepts.
Regulatory topics will also play a central role. Changes to European aviation law, developments relating to Part-NCO, Part-ML and new certification approaches for light aircraft are likely to be on the programme again.
For general aviation, AERO is therefore much more than just a product show - it is a platform for dialogue, innovation and setting the strategic course.
Conclusion
Preparations for AERO 2026 officially begin with the opening of registration for slot allocation. Anyone wishing to travel to the event in their own aircraft should register early in the system and keep an eye on further communication.
The combination of visiting the trade fair, networking and flying your own aircraft is what makes the event so appealing. For many pilots, the AERO is not just a date in the diary, but an integral part of the aviation year.
Source references:
AOPA
