ILA Berlin 2023 Draws 110,000 as Aerospace and Defence Take Center Stage

The Berlin Air Show (ILA Berlin) 2023 took place at Berlin Brandenburg Airport from June 10 to 14. The event drew around 110,000 visitors, marking a rise from the 95,000 recorded in 2021. It featured innovations in aviation, aerospace, and defence, with exhibits from 765 companies across 37 countries. The show has a long history, tracing back to the first international airship exhibition in Frankfurt am Main in 1909. Chancellor Friedrich Merz attended the opening ceremony, highlighting the event’s significance.

On June 10, pro-Palestinian activists blocked access to the exhibition grounds, causing disruptions. Marie-Christine von Hahn, CEO of BDLI, emphasised the importance of the aerospace industry, calling it a key sector and strategic infrastructure.

During the event, eight defence firms announced plans to collaborate on a new fighter jet. This followed the collapse of the FCAS project, signalling continued investment in military aviation. ILA Berlin 2023 brought together global exhibitors and a large audience. The announcements and discussions at the show pointed to ongoing developments in aerospace and defence. The event reinforced the industry’s role in innovation and strategic planning.