BangaloreFarnborough International Airshow 2026 to expand with sixth exhibition hall and new SME-focused features
Farnborough International Airshow 2026 is scheduled to take place from 20 to 24 July 2026 and is set to be the largest edition in the event’s 78-year history. The biennial airshow will add a sixth exhibition hall, following high exhibitor demand and the advance sale of exhibition halls and chalets around 12 months ahead of the event.
According to information released by the organisers, exhibitor space for the 2026 edition has sold out, with a waiting list of more than 50 organisations. The event is expected to see increased international participation, reinforcing its role as a global meeting point for the aerospace, defence, space and related industries.
The 2026 airshow will introduce new features aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and strengthening supply chain engagement. One of the additions is the Defence SME Zone, a dedicated area for companies specialising in defence and security technologies with an annual turnover below GBP 10 million. The zone is designed to facilitate engagement between SMEs and larger defence contractors, investors, government representatives and media.
The Defence SME Zone is sponsored by Babcock International Group. Companies expected to participate include Cognitive Design by CDS, Elite EMC, Emergent, Infortecorp Solutions, Inspectahire and Needles And Pins Aerospace. Organisers said the zone will provide networking opportunities, direct exposure to international defence supply chains and access to a large visitor base during the event.
Another new feature is the Enterprise Gateway, which will run from 21 to 23 July 2026 alongside the Business Connections Exchange. The Enterprise Gateway is a three-day programme focused on supply chain development and business growth. It will include workshops on procurement, regulation, exports and funding, as well as keynote sessions, mentoring and live pitching events. Speakers are expected to include representatives from consulting and investment firms, including Mercurea, Twin Track Ventures and Alatar.
The organisers said the programme is aligned with the UK Government’s Plan for Change and is intended to support both SMEs and larger companies in navigating regulatory and market requirements. The Enterprise Gateway will target multiple sectors across aerospace, defence and adjacent industries.
The 2026 edition is expected to feature the largest international industry presence in the airshow’s history. Twenty-six international pavilions have already been confirmed, including those representing India, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Brazil and Switzerland.
The final day of the event, 24 July 2026, will host Pioneers of Tomorrow, a dedicated science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) day aimed at young people. The programme will include a careers fair, a digital job board and interactive activities designed to highlight entry-level roles, apprenticeships and graduate opportunities. Participating organisations are expected to include Babcock International Group, Parker Aerospace and Belcan.
Trade visitor ticket sales for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are currently open.On Date: