Singapore Airshow has highest number of trade visitors ever

Singapore Airshow 2024 saw a record number of trade visitors over a span of 4 days, which broke the previous record in 2018.

By: Haotian

Published on: 23 February 2024, 6.39pm (GMT +8)

About 60,000 trade visitors showed up. Photo: Channel NewsAsia (CNA)

The 9th edition of the Singapore Airshow in 2024 saw an impressive turnout, with close to 60,000 trade attendees at the Changi Exhibition Centre. This marked a 10% increase from the previous record set in 2018. The event's success reflects a growing optimism and recovery in the aerospace sector across the Asia-Pacific region, which is set to play a significant role, accounting for over 45% of new aircraft deliveries between 2023 and 2042.

Since its establishment in 2008, Singapore Airshow has been a cornerstone event, featuring collaborations and driving innovation in the aerospace and defence industries. Each edition of the airshow unites industry leaders, government officials, and military delegations, providing a valuable platform for networking and sharing insights.

Mr Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia, the organiser of Singapore Airshow, commented:

“We are delighted to announce this overwhelming response for this edition; it clearly signals a renewed optimism and momentum driving the sector forward. It certainly reaffirms Singapore Airshow’s role as a catalytic platform for industry sector professionals worldwide in the global arena to convene and draw up tomorrow’s agenda.”

The Singapore Airshow, known for fostering collaborations, witnessed major announcements during its trade days.

Airbus committed to carbon neutrality by 2050, including plans for a hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035 and an agreement with TotalEnergies for sustainable aviation fuel supply in Europe. Singapore proposed a levy to support sustainable aviation fuel, reflecting the industry's push for net-zero emissions by 2050. Boeing aimed for autonomous flights by 2030. Embraer partnered with Scoot, Asia Pacific's first airline to adopt its Collaborative Inventory Planning solution.

Quite a few Asia-based airlines made significant orders: STARLUX Airlines ordered five Airbus A350Fs and three more A330 NEO jets, VietJet Air signed an Memorandum of Understanding for 20 A330-900 wide-bodies with Airbus. China's COMAC also showcased their ARJ-21 and COMAC C919 jets, and Tibet Airlines signed a deal for an order for 50 of the jets. Thai Airways and Royal Brunei Airlines ordered 45 and 4 Boeing 787 Dreamliners respectively.