March 23, 2026
Preparations for AERO 2026 (April 22–25, 2026) are in full swing at the Friedrichshafen Exhibition Center—four weeks before the show even begins. In the southwest corner of the fairgrounds, the spectacular Business Aviation Dome—larger than last year’s—is rising, while posters throughout the region highlight the world’s leading trade fair for general aviation, business aviation, and air sports.
Tobias Bretzel, Show Director AERO at fairnamic GmbH, says: "The weeks leading up to AERO are always particularly hectic. This year, we expect a new record number of exhibitors, and ticket bookings are also significantly higher than last year. When we talk to companies and organizations, we hear just how eagerly they are looking forward to this year’s AERO. Many exhibitors will be unveiling new products, which alone make it worth coming to AERO. It had already become apparent last fall that business aviation would have a particularly strong presence at AERO this year. This trend has continued unabated."
Business aviation companies will present their products and services not only in the Business Aviation Dome, but also in Hall A1. In addition, there will be joint stands from national associations such as the German Business Aviation Association (GBAA) – the main national partner of AERO and the AERO Business Aviation Show Hub – the Austrian Business Aviation Association (ABAA), the Air Charter Association (ACA), the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA), and many other partners. In addition to new products, networking through first-class evening events is central to the trade fair concept. Furthermore, the development of the framework conditions for the industry and the future challenges facing business aviation are key focuses. Conferences and presentations by leading industry experts provide in-depth insights and complement the exhibition.
Ultralight aircraft and helicopters can be found in Halls B of the exhibition grounds. This segment of aviation is always particularly innovative, diverse, and vibrant. Ultralight aircraft impress not only with their variety but above all with their performance. The increase in the maximum takeoff weight to 600 kilograms in Germany allows designers to explore new paths to make ultralight aircraft accessible to a wider audience. International manufacturers and accessory dealers meet knowledgeable prospects and potential and existing customers at AERO.
Single- and twin-engine piston aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 2 tons constitute the majority of general aviation aircraft in Europe. They serve as touring aircraft, training aircraft, but are also used for special missions like forest fire observation and traffic monitoring. All major manufacturers in this sector, such as Cirrus Aircraft, Textron Aviation, Tecnam, Diamond Aircraft, Piper Aircraft, Elixir Aircraft, and Extra Aircraft, will be represented at AERO 2026.
Exhibitors working on sustainable products will be featured on the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail. Over 100 companies have registered and will demonstrate to visitors what the sustainable future of aviation looks like. This year, participants on the AERO Sustainable Aviation Trail will be highlighted by green and white windsocks.
For the first time this year, there will be a free shuttle bus service from select hotels in the region to AERO. The buses will depart from Lindau, Ravensburg, and Überlingen in the morning for the trade show and return in the evening after the show closes.
To get the most out of your visit to AERO, it’s helpful to prepare in advance. The AERO app is now available for download from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. In addition to comprehensive information on the daily program, the current exhibitor directory, and an interactive hall map, users will also find the latest press releases about the trade show and other important information in the app. You can also find a constantly updated list of the aircraft on display at the show. Until March 31, 2026, AERO app users will receive a 15% discount on their trade show ticket when they purchase it through the app. They can find the exclusive discount code directly in the app.