Farnborough ready for takeoff

Speaking about the show, Lord Digby Jones, Trade and Investment Minister, lauded Britain's "enviable" research and development base and noted that the country is at the cutting edge of aviation developments, including more fuel-efficient engines and carbon-fibre wings.

"I want to make sure that we are getting the best out of Farnborough and that British aerospace firms make the most of the opportunities that are out there," he remarked.

We have a lot to shout about; a highly skilled workforce and a research and development base which is the envy of the world

Lord Digby Jones

Trade and investment minister

UKTI

"We have a lot to shout about; a highly skilled workforce and a research and development base which is the envy of the world. Half of every Airbus is built here in the UK and the US president's helicopter is a Merlin - a British helicopter,” he continued.

Running from July 14th to 18th, the 2008 airshow is anticipated to be the biggest event yet, with more than 1,500 exhibitors showing off their latest products and developments. Companies from 35 countries will be drawn to the event, including the India-based Hindustan Aeronautics, Dubai World Central and Bahrain International Airport.

Intended to promote the UK's aerospace sector to global governments and businesses, the airshow is expected to draw companies from 35 countries, including India-based Hindustan Aeronautics, Dubai World Central and Bahrain International Airport.

The organisers claim the last event, held in 2006, attracted 140,000 trade visitors and saw more than £21 billion in orders being placed, in addition to the 130,000 members of the public attending.

Amanda Stainer, the airshow's exhibition and events director, commented: "Our intention has always been to build on the success of the 2006 event, and to ensure that this year's show delivers an incomparable business service for our exhibitors and their customers.

Included in the event is the Business Aircraft Park, a dedicated trade area where exhibitors can display their aircraft on hard-standing pads.

In 2006 the Airbus A380 made its UK debut at the show, while this year the F-22 fighter aircraft, regarded as one of the world's leading military planes, will make an appearance.

2008 marks a double anniversary celebration in the UK aviation calendar. The Airshow will celebrate its diamond anniversary, marking 60 successful years at the Farnborough Aerodrome. It will also be 100 years since Samuel Franklin Cody made the first successful sustained, powered flight in the UK from Farnborough Airfield on 16 October 1908.