The 100-day countdown to the 16th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China 2026) was officially launched on August 28 in Zhuhai, Guangdong, marking a significant milestone as the event celebrates its 30th anniversary. Scheduled for December 7-13, the exhibition promises to be a landmark occasion, reflecting on three decades of growth and innovation in the aerospace industry.
At the launch event, a commemorative logo was unveiled, featuring a three-dimensional, gold-toned "30" as its central visual symbol, integrated with tech-inspired aviation and advanced manufacturing elements, complemented by gradient ribbons in blue, purple, and magenta. This logo not only celebrates the history of Airshow China but also symbolizes its forward-looking vision. Founded in 1996, Airshow China has evolved from a modest gathering into one of the world's premier aerospace exhibitions, and this year's event is expected to underscore its continued ascent.
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, highlighted the exhibition's transformation: "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." This sentiment was echoed throughout the event, as stakeholders emphasized the importance of global collaboration and innovation.
The launch also featured a World Airshow Dialogue session, where industry representatives from home and abroad delved into critical topics such as global industrial-chain coordination, green aviation, the low-altitude economy (also known as advanced air mobility), aircraft engines aftermarket services, and the development of the general aviation industry. These discussions underscore the exhibition's role as a platform for addressing key challenges and opportunities shaping the future of aviation.
Representatives from peer event organizer International Aviation and Space Salon (MAKS) and major aviation players including Boeing delivered video remarks, expressing anticipation for returning to Airshow China with state-of-the-art products and services. Their participation highlights the event's international appeal and its significance in fostering deeper industrial exchanges. In a subsequent round-table dialogue, Dai Haibin, spokesperson for AVIC General Aircraft Company, noted that Airshow China has served as an excellent platform for debuting key aircraft and other equipment, among them the AG600 "Kunlong" amphibious aircraft.
Xu Shixin, Chief Operating Officer of Embraer China, observed that the Chinese market boasts huge potential and a well-developed industrial system, unlocking broad opportunities for cooperation in areas such as green aviation and the low-altitude economy. Drawing on its accumulated technological expertise, Embraer stands ready for deeper collaboration on eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft development and the building of a low-altitude transportation ecosystem. These insights reflect the growing importance of sustainable and innovative aviation solutions.
Additionally, Zhuhai Airshow International Culture Communication Co., Ltd. signed IP merchandise cooperation agreements with partners including Beijing Institute of Technology, Zhuhai; Alipay (Hangzhou) Digital Service Technology Co., Ltd; and Truly HONEST Investment Limited. The cooperation covers product development integrating traditional culture with aerospace technology, AI-powered digital commemorative ticket stubs enabled by NFC technology, and derivative products based on sci-fi intellectual properties. This initiative aims to enhance the visitor experience and broaden the exhibition's cultural impact.
Over its 30-year history, Airshow China has undergone remarkable expansion: from less than 8,000 square meters at its debut in 1996 to 450,000 square meters at its latest edition. The number of participating countries and regions has jumped from 25 to 47, cementing Airshow China's status as one of the world's most influential aviation and aerospace exhibitions. As the countdown begins, anticipation builds for an event that will not only commemorate the past but also chart the course for the future of aerospace.
