The 100-day countdown to the 16th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China 2026) officially began on August 28 in Zhuhai, Guangdong. The event, scheduled for December 7-13, will mark the 30th anniversary of Airshow China, which was founded in 1996. A commemorative logo featuring a gold-toned "30" with aviation-inspired elements and gradient ribbons was unveiled during the launch ceremony.
Li Xiaodong, Deputy Secretary-General of the People's Government of Zhuhai Municipality and Deputy Secretary-General of the Zhuhai Executive Committee of Airshow China, noted the show's evolution: "Over the past three decades, Airshow China has grown increasingly international, professional and market-oriented, establishing itself as one of the world's premier airshows. In 2026, Airshow China will continue to benchmark itself against world-class exhibitions and contribute to the development of aviation industry clusters."
At the World Airshow Dialogue session, industry representatives discussed global industrial-chain coordination, green aviation, the low-altitude economy, aircraft engines aftermarket services, and general aviation development. Representatives from International Aviation and Space Salon (MAKS) and Boeing delivered video remarks, expressing anticipation for returning to Airshow China with state-of-the-art products and services.
During a round-table dialogue, Dai Haibin, spokesperson for AVIC General Aircraft Company, highlighted that Airshow China has been an excellent platform for debuting key aircraft, including the AG600 "Kunlong" amphibious aircraft. Xu Shixin, Chief Operating Officer of Embraer China, emphasized the Chinese market's huge potential and well-developed industrial system, unlocking opportunities for cooperation in green aviation and the low-altitude economy. Embraer is ready for deeper collaboration on eVTOL aircraft development and building a low-altitude transportation ecosystem.
Additionally, Zhuhai Airshow International Culture Communication Co., Ltd. signed IP merchandise cooperation agreements with partners such as Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhuhai; Alipay (Hangzhou) Digital Service Technology Co., Ltd; and Truly HONEST Investment Limited. These collaborations cover product development integrating traditional culture with aerospace technology, AI-powered digital commemorative ticket stubs using NFC technology, and derivative products based on sci-fi intellectual properties.
Airshow China's growth over three decades is remarkable: from less than 8,000 square meters in 1996 to 450,000 square meters in its latest edition. The number of participating countries and regions has increased from 25 to 47, cementing its status as one of the world's most influential aviation and aerospace exhibitions. The upcoming show promises to showcase the latest advancements and foster international cooperation in the aviation industry.
