Singapore Airshow Delivers Big

Asia’s largest aerospace show didn’t disappoint. Record visitors. Record deals. The biennial Singapore Airshow, Feb. 14-19, pulled in 145,000 attendees from 128 countries.

It definitely followed through on its marketing promise of a “Big Show, Big Opportunities.” Boeing’s landmark, largest-ever commercial order came from Indonesia’s Lion Air. Its order for Boeing 737 aircraft rang up at $22+ billion. Let’s put that in perspective. Total signed deals made during the last Singapore Airshow in 2010 brought in less that half that: $10 billion.

Growing Stronger Every Day

While aviation’s rebounding worldwide, the Asia-Pacific is the site of its strongest growth. Attendees weren’t just tire-kickers – but power-hitters. Sultans and prime ministers. Heads of defense and captains of industry.

Building Capacity

First-time exhibitors included BBA Aviation and Dallas Airmotive, which also celebrated the opening of its Singapore regional turbine center. FlightSafety International did some celebrating in the region, as well, hosting a highly successful public grand opening of its Hong Kong Learning Center on February 14.

Air force aerial displays from Singapore, Malaysia, United States and Australia demonstrated the power and possibilities of man and machine. Blair Aerosports of Australia made history by putting on the show’s first stunt aerobatic performance. Actor Jackie Chan’s splashy red and yellow Embraer Legacy 650 drew added interest to the static display.

We have to wonder what’s in store for the next show in 2014. Something tells us, it will be big.