AERO Friedrichshafen will return from 14–17 April 2027 with an enhanced exhibition concept designed to build on the success of this year’s event, which attracted 860 exhibitors and approximately 37,000 visitors.

The organisers have announced a revised layout aimed at improving visitor navigation and exhibitor visibility, while retaining the broad industry representation that has made AERO one of the world’s leading general aviation trade exhibitions.

Refined exhibition structure

AERO 2027 will once again showcase the full spectrum of general aviation, business aviation and air sports. The AERO Gliding Expo, which takes place every two years, will return to the event, bringing glider manufacturers and suppliers back to Friedrichshafen.

Under the revised hall allocation, helicopters will move closer to business aviation and flight training exhibitors in Hall A2, while ultralight helicopters will be exhibited alongside ultralight and light sport aircraft manufacturers in the B halls. Single- and twin-engine aircraft manufacturers will occupy Halls A3 to A6, while Hall A7 will focus on start-ups, alternative propulsion technologies and emerging aircraft concepts, including hydrogen- and electric-powered developments.

According to Tobias Bretzel, Project Manager of AERO, the changes are based on feedback received from exhibitors and visitors following the 2026 edition. He said the revised structure is intended to create a more clearly segmented exhibition and improve the efficiency of participation for both exhibitors and attendees.

Business aviation to expand

Business aviation recorded the strongest growth segment at AERO 2026 and will continue its expansion at the 2027 event. Organisers have adjusted the opening schedule for the Business Aviation Show Hub, including Hall A1 and the Business Aviation Dome, which will operate from 14–16 April 2027 with an early closing time of 14:00 on the final business aviation day. All other exhibition areas will remain open throughout the four-day event.

The event’s Static Display will remain positioned directly outside the A halls, allowing visitors to move easily between indoor exhibits and aircraft displayed on the apron. The dedicated Pre-Owned Aircraft Area will also return, providing prospective buyers with access to a range of used aircraft offerings.

Expanded professional development opportunities

AERO’s conference and educational programme will continue to play a significant role in the event. Building on a programme that included nearly 300 individual lectures, conferences and workshops in 2026, organisers plan to introduce additional training opportunities through the AERO GA Academy and new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) workshop formats aimed at private pilots and air sports organisations.

The AERO Hydrogen & Battery Summit will also return, bringing together researchers, manufacturers, regulators and operators to discuss developments in alternative propulsion technologies and future aviation energy solutions.

Air show planned for AERO Saturday

Organisers are also planning an air show for the Saturday of the event, featuring aircraft demonstrations and aerobatic displays designed to showcase developments across the aviation and air sports sectors.

More than 65 exhibitors have already confirmed their participation in AERO 2027, with current exhibitors able to reserve their existing stand locations until the end of June 2026.