Trade visitor tickets for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are now officially on sale, marking the start of what organisers describe as a significantly expanded edition of the global aerospace and defence event. The airshow returns to Hampshire from 20–24 July 2026 and will take place at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

 

Following record demand, the 2026 event will be the largest in the show’s 78-year history, supported by the addition of a sixth exhibition hall. Exhibition halls and chalets have sold out up to 12 months in advance, with a waiting list of more than 50 organisations, signalling sustained international interest across aerospace, defence, space and adjacent sectors.

 

The Enterprise Gateway: Supporting Supply Chain Growth

A key new feature for 2026 is The Enterprise Gateway, launching alongside the established Business Connections Exchange. Running from 21–23 July, the three-day programme is designed to support supply chain development and business growth for SMEs and prime contractors across multiple sectors.

 

The programme will include expert-led workshops covering procurement, regulation, exports and funding, as well as keynote sessions and mentoring from industry leaders and policymakers. Live pitching sessions will connect SMEs with investors and prime contractors, with content aligned to the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

 

Speakers confirmed for the programme include a Partner at Mercurea, a General Partner at Twin Track Ventures, and the Managing Director of Alatar Ltd. The Enterprise Gateway is positioned to translate insight into practical action, equipping businesses with tools and connections to scale sustainably.

 

International Participation and Industry Reach

The 2026 airshow is set to host its largest-ever international industry presence. Twenty-six international pavilions have already been confirmed, including representation from India, Japan, Australia, Mexico, Brazil and Switzerland. Organisers state that this level of participation reflects Farnborough’s role as a trusted platform for global aerospace engagement and commercial activity.

 

Pioneers of Tomorrow: Addressing the Skills Gap

The week concludes on Friday, 24 July, with Pioneers of Tomorrow, a dedicated STEM-focused day aimed at inspiring young people to pursue careers in aerospace and related industries. Exhibitors, referred to as Champions of Tomorrow, will engage directly with students and early-career visitors through on-stand experiences, competitions and sector-focused activities.

 

The day will feature a Careers Fair and a digital Job Board advertising apprenticeships, graduate schemes and entry-level roles. Organisations already confirmed to participate include Babcock International Group, Parker Aerospace, and Belcan.

 

Defence SME Zone Debuts in 2026

Another new feature is the Defence SME Zone, which will debut as a dedicated area for high-potential international SMEs specialising in defence and security technologies. The zone is open exclusively to businesses with a turnover under £10 million.

 

Designed to support early-stage and growing companies, the Defence SME Zone will provide opportunities to engage with prime contractors, investors, media and government delegations, alongside access to targeted networking events. The zone is sponsored by Babcock International and will host businesses including Cognitive Design by CDS, Elite EMC Ltd, Emergent, Infortecorp Solutions Limited, Inspectahire, and Needles And Pins Aerospace.

 

Ticket Information

Trade visitor tickets for Farnborough International Airshow 2026 are now available, with prices starting from £59 plus VAT. Organisers advise early booking due to high demand.

 

Further information and ticket purchases are available via the official Farnborough International