AAD IS THE LARGEST GATHERING of the aerospace and defence industry players and buyers on the African continent. It is Africa's only aerospace and defence expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show. Held biennially at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria, AAD provides aerospace and defence companies with the most efficient and effective access to Africa's aviation purchasing, procurement and supply chains.
The theme for the 2022 show is, "Exploring New Paths, Sharing Solutions, Showcasing Innovation and Capabilities." The 2022 format remains unchanged with the event keeping to the traditional three trade days and two air show days on the weekend.
AAD organisers say that the exhibition provides a conducive environment for business-to-business linkages as well as strategic platforms to engage in dialogue on international defence, aerospace and other related best practices.
At time of writing arrangements for AAD 2022 are being finalised, with over 70% of the space already confirmed and countries such as the USA, Italy, Turkey, Belgium, China, UK, India and Pakistan hosting National Pavilions. The USA is expected to have a particularly strong presence, as is Turkey, with its key position in relation to the Ukraine war.
AAD walks the tricky line of combining both the civilian and military sectors. This year there is a special emphasis on general aviation (GA). Co-convenor is the Civil Aviation Association of South Africa (CAASA). General Manager Kevin Storie says that CAASA is providing a brand new GA hub at the forefront of the show. "This will boost the commercial and recreational side of aviation. The hub will provide direct access to a GA exhibition space and breakaway rooms for presentations. In addition, the Aero Club of South Africa gets its own outside display park for free."
This story is from the September 2022 edition of SA Flyer Magazine.
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This story is from the September 2022 edition of SA Flyer Magazine.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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