International Airshow at Ysterplaat Airforce Base Information

South Africa's biggest air show at Ysterplaat in Cape Town provides great airborne entertainment in 2010

Africa’s largest aerospace, defence, and security exhibition is moving to what many have called the world’s most beautiful city. Africa Aerospace & Defence – AAD 2010– will be held in Cape Town from 21 - 25 September 2010.

The 2010 Ysterplaat Airshow programme is difficult to structure precisely due to the nature of an air show, but you can expect to be wowed all day long by spectacular airborne trickery from some of the world’s greatest airplanes.

According to exhibition director, Mr Geoff van Hees, three new national pavilions have increased AAD2010 by more than 1 200 square metres in display area.

“Some 80 per cent of the exhibition space has already been booked, which is remarkable considering the worldwide economic situation that has impacted on the global aerospace and defence industry,” Van Hees says.

“The fact that Turkey, China and the United States of America have all booked large national pavilions at AAD2010 underlines their confidence in South Africa and in the potential for business here. It is the first time these three countries are exhibiting at AAD2010 as national pavilions.”

35 countries, 350 exhibitors!

The organisers of AAD2010 hope to surpass the previous numbers of some 350 exhibiting companies from 35 countries. Some 80 foreign delegations from around the world have been invited, many from Africa, as well as the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.

“Visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the enhanced facilities at AFB Ysterplaat,” Van Hees explains. “A modern trade visitor registration area has been built to improve access into the show. There are also new conference rooms and offices for our first-ever official show daily magazine, produced for us by the IHS Jane’s Information Group in London. Further, an exciting new mobility track is planned for dynamic vehicle demonstrations.”

The first three days are dedicated trade days for professionals and media, with 24 and 25 September open to the public. Flying displays during these two days are once again envisaged, although the exact aircraft types will only be confirmed at a later date.

More exciting events are planned for the youth. The AAD youth development programme (YDP) is specifically aimed at encouraging young learners to consider a career in South Africa’s aerospace and defence industries. These events include interactive workshops and competitions. Companies interested in getting involved in the YDP may contact Ms Janine Fredericks on 073 386 7386.

Feast your eyes!

Ysterplaat Airshow 2008:



For more information be sure to have a look at our events listing for the Ysterplaat Airshow 2010.

And if it's your first time going and need a taste of what to expect, have a read through the Ysterplaat Airshow 2008.

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