The inaugural Singapore Airshow was held from February 19–24, 2008 at the Changi Exhibition Center. The venue was purpose-built to host Asian Aerospace, but when Reed Exhibitions pulled the event from Singapore due to disagreements with ST Engineering, the Singapore government inaugurated the Singapore Airshow instead.
The Singapore Airshow is a biennial event held on even years. It features almost 1,000 exhibitors from about 50 countries, and deals announced or concluded at the show are worth billions of dollars.
The program of the Singapore Airshow includes industry events and events for the general public. Trade events held at the show include conferences and forums, a startup showcase, displays and demonstrations, and co-located events (conferences, awards ceremonies, networking receptions). Key events are the Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit, A*STAR Aerospace Technology Leadership Forum, Education Day, and Singapore Aerospace Technology and Engineering Conference (SATEC).
The last two days of the Singapore Airshow are reserved for the general public. The biggest attractions include a spectacular line-up of aerobatic flying displays, static aircraft displays featuring both civil and military aircraft, fun activities with the show’s mascots, meet-the-pilot sessions, and more. Facilities at the event include food and beverage outlets, visitor rest areas, a prayer room, and free Wi-Fi. The show site is disabled-access friendly.
Breathtaking aerobatic displays probably are the main attraction at the Singapore Airshow. The line-up includes aerobatic teams and aircraft representing the Republic of Singapore Air Force, the Republic of Korea Air Force, the Royal Malaysian Air Force, the United States Air Force, the French Air Force, and more. After the show, attendees can meat the pilots, talk to them, take a picture and get their posters signed by their favorite teams.
