Gallery: Farnborough International Airshow 2024 takes flight

The UK’s biggest aviation event is back for 2024.

Between 22-26th July, more than 74,000 people, from 102 different countries, will descend on Farnborough, where they will speak to over 1,200 exhibitors and see some of the most advanced aviation technology.

Among them was the UK’s new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, who took time to talk to some of the local exhibitors including Farnborough Aerospace Consortium and Fareham-based Barnbrook Systems.

Graham Chisnall, Chairman of FAC, said: “We had previously urged the new government to focus on innovation and skills.

“So we were pleased to hear of the emphasis that they are placing on skills with the launch a new public body.

“Our members in the aerospace, aviation, defence and space sectors – as well as their supply chains – are often frustrated by the lack of workers with the right skills.

“The teaching of STEM subjects and proper training is crucial in ensuring that the UK remains world leaders in aerospace and related areas.

“We represent a large number of key businesses – from multi-nationals to SMEs – and they are the backbone of the economy and are just the types of companies that will drive growth.

“By visiting the airshow the Prime Minister has signalled that he understands the importance of the sectors we represent.

“Billions of pounds worth of business will be done this week and we are working with our members to ensure they benefit as much as possible.”

Speaking on the significance of the show to the local area, Barnbrook Systems Managing Director, Andrew Barnett said: “It’s an opportunity for UK engineering companies to globally showcase their capabilities.

“It also has a good knock-on effect to the local area. It gives me a very positive feeling about where this industry is going.”

Farnborough Aerospace Consortium CEO, Alan Fisher said: “The Airshow is incredibly important for Hampshire and the South East, to have so much of the aerospace and defence industry congregating in Rushmoor and Farnborough.

“It is the pinnacle of the aerospace and defence industry in the UK, it brings together the whole industry.

“It brings extra revenue into the region during the show, it puts Farnborough on the map, it puts Hampshire on the map, and therefore it puts the whole of the South East on the map.

“There’s a buzz around the industry at the moment because we’ve just gone through a change of government, who have re-affirmed a commitment to investment in advanced engineering, advanced manufacturing, aerospace and defence.

Keep reading to see our gallery from day one of the show. All images (c) Hampshire Biz News.