Did you know that the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, one of the world’s largest airshows, attracts over 600,000 visitors and 10,000 aircraft annually?1 Airshows are the ultimate spectacle for aviation fans, combining the thrill of flight with cutting-edge technology and historical aircraft.
These events offer a unique opportunity to witness breathtaking aerial displays, explore static exhibits, and connect with fellow aviation buffs from around the globe.
Here are 15 must-see airshows that should be on every aviation fan’s bucket list.
1. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
Known as the “World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration,” EAA AirVenture Oshkosh is a mecca for aviation enthusiasts. This week-long extravaganza in Wisconsin transforms Wittman Regional Airport into the busiest airport in the world during the event.
- Attracts over 600,000 visitors annually
- Features more than 10,000 aircraft
- Includes daily air shows, workshops, and forums
- Showcases vintage, homebuilt, and military aircraft
2. Farnborough International Airshow
The Farnborough International Airshow in England is a biennial event that combines a major trade exhibition for the aerospace and defense industries with a public airshow. It’s where cutting-edge technology meets spectacular aerial displays.
- Alternates yearly with the Paris Air Show
- Hosts over 1,500 exhibitors from 52 countries
- Showcases the latest commercial and military aircraft
- Features daily flying displays and static aircraft exhibitions
3. Royal International Air Tattoo
The Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) at RAF Fairford in England is the world’s largest military air show. It’s a thrilling display of international cooperation and aerial prowess that draws aviation enthusiasts from across the globe.
- Typically features over 250 aircraft from 25+ nations
- Raises money for the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust
- Includes breathtaking flying displays and ground exhibitions
- Showcases historic warbirds alongside modern military jets
4. Paris Air Show
The Paris Air Show, held at Le Bourget Airport, is one of the oldest and largest air shows in the world. It’s a premier event for the aviation industry, combining business deals with spectacular flying displays.
- Occurs every odd-numbered year
- Attracts over 300,000 visitors during its public days
- Features the latest civilian and military aircraft
- Hosts major aerospace industry announcements and deals
5. Dubai Airshow
The Dubai Airshow has rapidly grown to become one of the largest and most important aerospace events in the world. It’s a showcase of the latest aviation technology in the heart of the Middle East.
- Held biennially at Dubai World Central
- Attracts over 1,200 exhibitors from 63 countries
- Known for record-breaking commercial aircraft orders
- Features impressive flying displays in the desert setting
6. Singapore Airshow
As Asia’s largest aerospace and defense event, the Singapore Airshow is a must-see for aviation enthusiasts. It offers a unique blend of cutting-edge technology and aerial artistry against the backdrop of Singapore’s stunning skyline.
- Occurs biennially at Changi Exhibition Centre
- Attracts over 1,000 exhibitors from 50 countries
- Features static displays of both civilian and military aircraft
- Includes breathtaking aerobatic performances by international teams
7. MAKS International Aviation & Space Salon
The MAKS airshow in Zhukovsky, Russia, is a spectacular display of Russian aerospace prowess. It’s an opportunity to see rare Russian aircraft and space technology up close.
- Held biennially at Zhukovsky International Airport
- Showcases Russia’s latest military and civilian aircraft
- Features impressive aerobatic displays by Russian teams
- Includes exhibits on space exploration technology
8. Australian International Airshow
Also known as the Avalon Airshow, this event in Victoria, Australia, is the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. It combines a trade expo with a public air show, offering something for everyone.
- Takes place biennially at Avalon Airport
- Features over 600 participating companies
- Includes impressive flying displays and static exhibitions
- Showcases both civilian and military aircraft from around the world
9. Aero India
Aero India in Bengaluru is Asia’s premier aerospace exhibition, showcasing India’s growing aviation industry alongside international participants. It’s a blend of business opportunities and thrilling aerial displays.
- Held biennially at Yelahanka Air Force Station
- Attracts over 700 exhibitors from 55 countries
- Features flying displays by Indian and international teams
- Showcases India’s indigenous aerospace developments
10. China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition
Also known as Airshow China, this event in Zhuhai is the largest air show in mainland China. It’s a window into China’s rapidly developing aerospace industry and military capabilities.
- Occurs biennially at Zhuhai Jinwan Airport
- Features over 700 exhibitors from 40+ countries
- Showcases China’s latest military and civilian aircraft
- Includes impressive flying displays and static exhibitions
11. ILA Berlin Air Show
The ILA Berlin Air Show is one of Europe’s major aerospace trade fairs, combining industry exhibitions with public flying displays. It’s a celebration of aviation history and innovation in the heart of Germany.
- Held biennially at Berlin ExpoCenter Airport
- Attracts over 1,000 exhibitors from 40 countries
- Features both civil and military aircraft displays
- Includes special focus on sustainable aviation technologies
12. Abbotsford International Airshow
The Abbotsford International Airshow in British Columbia, Canada, is renowned for its spectacular mountain backdrop and diverse array of aircraft. It’s a thrilling event for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
- Takes place annually at Abbotsford International Airport
- Features performances by Canadian and international teams
- Includes static displays of vintage and modern aircraft
- Offers unique night show with pyrotechnics and illuminated aircraft
13. LIMA (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition)
LIMA in Malaysia is a unique event that combines both aerospace and maritime exhibitions. It offers a diverse range of aerial displays against the beautiful backdrop of Langkawi Island.
- Held biennially at Langkawi International Airport
- Attracts exhibitors from over 30 countries
- Features impressive flying displays over the Andaman Sea
- Includes both civilian and military aircraft exhibitions
14. Wings Over Houston Airshow
The Wings Over Houston Airshow in Texas is a celebration of aviation history and modern aerial prowess. It’s known for its impressive warbird displays and reenactments.
- Takes place annually at Ellington Airport
- Features performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels or U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
- Includes reenactments of historic air battles
- Offers up-close views of rare vintage aircraft
15. Japan Air Self-Defense Force Air Festival
The JASDF Air Festival, rotating between various air bases in Japan, offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s air defense capabilities. It’s a rare opportunity to see Japanese military aircraft up close.
- Held annually at different JASDF bases across Japan
- Features impressive displays by Japanese fighter jets
- Includes static exhibitions of JASDF aircraft and equipment
- Offers cultural performances alongside aviation displays
The world of aviation offers endless excitement and wonder, celebrating the past, present, and future of flight. Whether you’re a seasoned aviation enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these airshows promise unforgettable experiences that will leave you in awe of human ingenuity and the magic of flight.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
