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Held bi-annually on the southern section of Berlin-Schönefeld Airport the International Aerospace Exhibition ILA2006 (16 to 21 May) ranks among the world’s largest and most important Aerospace exhibitions. It was first held in Frankfurt/Main in 1909, and as such can lay claim to being the oldest Aviation show in the world. After the first ILA, following the idea of the aircraft constructor August Euler, numerous flying clubs combined to form the German Pilots’ Association in April 1910. Shortly after, the Association of German Aircraft Makers was founded in Frankfurt/Main, establishing close ties between the ILA and the future Federal Association of the Aerospace Industry (BDLI), an organisation that exists today. Before the First World War the ILA was held in Berlin (1912 and later on in 1928). When Germany regained air sovereignty after the Second World War the foundations were laid in 1955 for an “International Show for Travel by Air“, which in 1957 took place at Langenhagen Airport as part of the Hanover Trade Fair, the first in a run of ILA shows in Hanover that was to last over 30 years. Known initially as the German Aviation Show, the fair was increasingly attracting participants from abroad, and in 1978 the symbolic three letters ILA from 1909 were revived. In 1992, the far-reaching political and economic changes which had taken place in Europe since the fall of the Berlin Wall opened the way for the ILA to return to its birthplace in Berlin . Since then the ILA has become one of the fastest-growing aerospace shows. The ILA’s main display sections include commercial aviation, aerospace, military aviation and military technology, equipment and engines, and general aviation and helicopters. Two new sections at ILA2006 are emphasis of the dynamic and market-oriented concept of the ILA. This year the International Suppliers Center ISC will supplement existing displays with an additional platform for second-tier suppliers. The ILA Space World is new as well, combining a presentation of Europe’s aerospace industry with displays of other aerospace companies and agencies. More than 1,000 exhibitors from over 40 countries are expected to attend ILA2006. Over 300 aircraft, from ultra-modern planes to classic flying machines, will be on show on the ground and in the air. Among them will be the world’s largest airliner, the Airbus A380 . A supporting programme of around 80 conferences debating current aerospace issues accompanies the exhibition. The first three days from 16 to 18 May are reserved for trade visitors only. On the weekend of 19 to 21 May a spectacular air display will thrill the watching crowds. The ILA is coorganised by the Federal Association of the Aerospace Industry (BDLI), Berlin, and Messe Berlin GmbH. EXTERNAL LINKS |
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