Farnborough International Airshow 2026 sees record participation and defence‑focused shift

The Farnborough International Airshow opened on 20 July 2026 in Hampshire, UK, with a record 1,636 exhibitors – a 15 % increase over 2024 – and more than 600 confirmed investors. Sixty‑three percent of exhibitors are from overseas, creating 28 international pavilions and making the show the most global airshow on the calendar. New floor space of over 5,000 m² and a total site area exceeding 500,000 m² accommodate the growth, while U.S. firms occupy roughly one‑third of the exhibition floor.

Defence now accounts for about half of the exhibit space, reflecting heightened budgets driven by the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Airbus and Boeing together are expected to secure just over 300 narrow‑body orders, with total commercial‑aircraft deals on day 1 valued at around £36 bn. Industry executives warned against rushing new‑generation jets, urging maturity before launch. A U.S. Senate delegation met aerospace leaders to reassure partners about tariff‑free trade, and European firms such as Italy’s Leonardo and Turkey’s TEI showcased national engines and defence systems. The event is positioning itself as a key venue for both commercial aircraft procurement and emerging defence technologies.