MANAMA: The Bahrain International Airshow 2024 wrapped up with significant business deals, including a contract between Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Leonardo to upgrade the country’s air traffic radar and surveillance systems.
This agreement aims to boost the efficiency and safety of Bahrain International Airport through advanced primary and secondary radar technologies.
The seventh edition of the airshow, held from November 13 to 15 at Sakhir Air Base, broke records with over 125 aircraft on display, marking a 25 percent increase from the previous event.
The event also saw Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, extend its long-term partnership with Joramco based in Amman, enhancing maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities.
Other notable agreements included a collaboration between Infracorp and Mena Aerospace to develop specialized aircraft hangars, positioning Bahrain as a regional hub for advanced aviation services.
Additionally, Valo Aviation secured Bahrain’s first business jet operator license, with plans to operate 15 aircraft by 2026, and a strategic cybersecurity alliance between Iron Net and Asterion to strengthen critical infrastructure protection.
Debut appearances at the event featured the US Department of Defense’s B-52H Stratofortress and flydubai’s latest static display models.
The three-day showcase, inaugurated by Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad on behalf of King Hamad, attracted over 40,000 industry professionals and visitors.
After touring the exhibition, Crown Prince Salman emphasized Bahrain’s focus on priority sectors as drivers of economic diversification, national development, and progress. He highlighted the role of the kingdom’s national talent in sustaining achievements and shaping future aspirations, according to the state news agency.
Air displays included performances by the Saudi Hawks, Bahrain’s F-16s, and the US Navy’s P-8 Poseidon, showcasing their capabilities. Static displays featured a range of aircraft, including Gulf Air’s B787-9 and the Pakistan Air Force’s JF-17.
Sustainability dominated discussions at the Airport and Airlines Forum, where executives from Gulf Air Group, Airbus, and Rolls-Royce explored the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel and net-zero technologies. Regulatory support and innovation were highlighted as essential to making sustainable aviation fuel commercially viable.
Bahrain International Airport was recognized as the world’s first to receive the International Air Transport Association’s Environmental Assessment Certification, aligning with the kingdom’s broader sustainability goals.
At a press conference, Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed, chairman of the airshow’s supreme organizing committee, expressed pride in its success in attracting leading global companies and organizations.
The chairman said the numerous agreements and deals signed during the event reflect Bahrain’s growing global stature, with the strong turnout of exhibitors, participants, and visitors further cementing the kingdom’s reputation as a hub for excellence and innovation.
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