Trade tickets for the most important aerospace and defense event of the year, Farnborough International Airshow 2026, are officially on sale, marking an unparalleled edition of the global aerospace showcase. Returning from 20–24 July 2026, the airshow will be the largest and most ambitious in its 78-year history, following record-breaking demand and the addition of a brand-new sixth exhibition hall.
With exhibitor space selling out exhibition halls and chalets 12 months in advance, and a waiting list of more than 50 organizations, the 2026 airshow is set to welcome more international participation than ever before, reinforcing the airshow’s position as the premier platform for innovation, collaboration, and investment across aerospace, defense, space, and adjacent sectors.
This landmark edition introduces major new features designed to influence and accelerate financial innovation across the sector, strengthen global industry ecosystems and empower SMEs:
Defense SME Zone
Highlighting Farnborough’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and innovation in defense, the Defense SME Zone will make its debut as a dedicated showcase for high-potential international organizations specializing in defense and security technologies.
Designed exclusively for businesses with a turnover under £10 million, the zone provides an unprecedented opportunity for SMEs to engage directly with the global defense supply chain; connect with primes, investors, media, and government delegations; participate in exclusive networking events; and showcase innovations to more than 100,000 visitors.
Sponsored by FTSE 100 defense company Babcock International, the Defense SME Zone will accelerate the visibility and growth of next-generation defense suppliers. Growing businesses, including the likes of Cognitive Design by CDS, Elite EMC Ltd, Emergent, Infortecorp Solutions Limited, Inspectahire, and Needles And Pins Aerospace, will have a presence during the show.
The Enterprise Gateway: Where Knowledge Meets Opportunity
Launching at the heart of the show alongside the renowned Business Connections Exchange, The Enterprise Gateway is a three-day expert-led program designed to drive supply chain development and unlock growth opportunities for SMEs and primes across multiple sectors. Speakers include a Partner at Mercurea, General Partner at Twin Track Ventures and Managing Director of Alatar Ltd.
Taking place 21–23 July 2026, this new feature will provide practical workshops on procurement, regulation, exports, and funding; keynotes and mentoring from industry leaders and policymakers; live pitching sessions connecting SMEs with investors and primes; and insights aligned with the UK Government’s Plan for Change.
Built to transform insight into action, The Enterprise Gateway equips businesses with the tools, connections, and confidence to scale sustainably in an evolving global market.
A Record-Breaking Airshow Ahead
With the largest-ever international industry presence, the 2026 edition underscores the demand from the world’s most influential organization to do business at one of the most trusted airshows in the world, and Farnborough’s unmatched ability to convene the global industry. Twenty-six international pavilions, including India, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, and Switzerland, are already confirmed.
The week concludes with Pioneers of Tomorrow on Friday, 24 July, welcoming thousands of young people for a dedicated STEM day, inspiring the next generation of industry leaders. Exhibitors, known as Champions of Tomorrow, will be demonstrating the opportunities within the sector and enable businesses to engage with the future workforce throughout the day directly helping to solve the skills-gap. The day will include dedicated features and activity, including a Careers Fair and digital Job Board to advertise apprenticeships, graduate schemes and entry-level roles, as well as competitions and on-stand experiences targeted at young people. Organizations already involved include Babcock International Group, Parker Aerospace and Belcan.
Ticket Information
Trade visitor ticket sales for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are officially open. With demand at an all-time high, attendees are encouraged to secure their place early for what promises to be the most dynamic and future-focused edition yet.
Prices start from £59+VAT. To purchase your airshow tickets or for more information, visit: https://www.farnboroughairshow.com/
The Farnborough International Airshow is held at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, Hampshire, UK.
